Most people experience some form of anxiety every day. In most cases, anxiety is simply a part of life that can be managed with coping skills. However, millions of people in the United States struggle with anxiety that overwhelms their ability to cope. Anxiety disorders are common mental health conditions that typically respond to treatment.
Therapy is a critical aspect of comprehensive treatment for anxiety disorders. This article will explore therapy for anxiety. You will learn:
- What anxiety is
- The symptoms of anxiety
- What to expect in anxiety treatment
- Where to find an anxiety therapist in West Deptford
If you or someone you love struggles with a type of anxiety disorder, you are not alone. Find the treatment and support you need to manage anxiety at Renewed Light Mental Health. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our mental health treatment programs or to schedule your first appointment.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a term used to describe physical and emotional responses to a stimulus. People may experience forms of anxiety in everyday situations. For example, people may feel anxious about giving a presentation at work or having a difficult conversation with a loved one.
Anxiety disorders are different than ordinary, everyday anxiety. People with anxiety disorders struggle with feelings of intense or frequent anxiety that can interfere with daily functioning.
Anxiety disorders can cause symptoms that make it difficult for people to work, have healthy relationships, socialize, and more.
Some emotional symptoms of anxiety disorders include:
- Tension
- Nervousness
- Agitation
- Worrying excessively
- Detachment or isolation
- Dread
- Irritability
Anxiety can cause physical symptoms, including:
- A feeling of choking or tightness in the throat
- Muscle tension
- Faster heart rate
- Dry mouth
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea
- Stomach discomfort or nausea
- Tingling or numbness in the hands, arms, face, or other areas
- Teeth grinding
- Headaches
Anxiety can also affect a person’s behavior. Some behavioral symptoms of anxiety include:
- Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Finding it difficult to relax
- Feeling restless or agitated
- Compulsive behaviors, such as counting, checking, or excessive cleaning
- Difficulty focusing or completing tasks
Short-term anxiety may occur as a result of a specific trigger. In some cases, people may struggle with long-term, chronic symptoms of anxiety.
Comprehensive treatment can reduce anxiety symptoms and improve functioning.
Understanding Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders take many forms. Each type of anxiety disorder has unique symptoms and features. Here is a quick overview of several common anxiety disorders.
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) causes chronic symptoms of anxiety that do not have a known cause. People with GAD may feel overwhelmed frequently or worry excessively about minor stressors.
Phobias
People with phobias have intense anxiety or fear responses to specific stimuli, including:
- Heights
- Air travel
- A living thing (spiders, snakes, rodents, etc)
- Enclosed spaces
People may avoid these things or live with feelings of dread about encountering them.
Panic disorder
People with panic disorder experience intensely distressing events called panic attacks. Symptoms of a panic attack include:
- Dizziness
- Racing heart
- A choking feeling
- Tingling in the hands, face, or other areas
- Sweating
- A sense of dread
Panic attacks are not dangerous, but can be very frightening.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may develop after someone experiences an intensely distressing event. Experiencing abuse, living in a war zone, an accident, and other events can leave a lasting imprint on a person’s mental and physical health. The symptoms of PTSD can be very disruptive and affect a person’s quality of life.
Social anxiety disorder
People with social anxiety disorder may feel dread and anxiety in social situations. They may have an intense fear of embarrassment or attention from others. This can affect their ability to function or have healthy relationships.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) causes obsessions (repetitive, unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (behaviors someone feels compelled to perform). People may spend hours a day engaging in “rituals” or repetitive actions, such as counting, cleaning, or chanting certain words. The symptoms of OCD can be exhausting and disruptive to a person’s functioning.
Mental health professionals use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to diagnose people accurately. Contact the treatment specialists at Renewed Light Mental Health to learn more about diagnosing anxiety or to schedule an intake appointment.
How to Choose the Right Anxiety Therapist in West Deptford
Finding the right anxiety therapist can feel overwhelming, but it’s an important step in getting the support you need. Here are some tips to help you choose the best therapist for your needs:
- Look for licensed professionals: It’s important to work with a licensed therapist who has experience treating anxiety disorders. Look for credentials like LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor), LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), or PsyD/PhD (Licensed Psychologist).
- Consider their experience: Some therapists specialize in treating anxiety. You may want to find a provider who has specific training in therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy, which are commonly used to treat anxiety.
- Ask about their approach: Different therapists use different methods. During an initial consultation, ask how they typically treat anxiety and what therapies they recommend. Make sure their approach feels like a good fit for you.
- Think about logistics: Practical details matter too. Look for a therapist whose office is conveniently located, offers appointment times that fit your schedule, and accepts your insurance, if applicable.
- Trust your instincts: Feeling comfortable with your therapist is key. Therapy is most effective when you feel safe, heard, and supported. If the connection doesn’t feel right after a few sessions, it’s OK to look for someone else.
Renewed Light Mental Health offers experienced anxiety therapists who are ready to help you take the next step toward feeling better. Contact our team today to learn more about your options or to schedule an appointment.
What to Expect in Therapy for Anxiety
Anxiety disorders typically respond to comprehensive treatment. Comprehensive treatment may include anti-anxiety medications and different types of therapy.
Some of the therapies used to treat anxiety disorders include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
- Exposure therapy
Talk therapy can help people explore and understand their anxiety in new ways. People may work with a therapist as part of a comprehensive treatment program or independently.
Typically, people will meet with a mental health professional to get an accurate diagnosis before starting treatment. Then, they will work with their medical and mental health professionals to find the right type of treatment and level of care to meet their needs.
Finding a Therapist for Anxiety in West Deptford
There are many ways to find an anxiety therapist in West Deptford. You may:
- Ask a medical or mental health professional for a referral
- Contact a health insurance representative to learn about in-network providers
- Search online for local anxiety therapists
- Contact the Renewed Light Mental Health specialists to find a therapist
Anxiety is treatable. Find the help you need to manage mental health conditions at Renewed Light Mental Health.
Find a Therapist Who Treats Anxiety in West Deptford
If you or someone you love lives with the symptoms of an anxiety disorder, help is available at Renewed Light Mental Health. Find comprehensive, compassionate treatment and schedule your first appointment by contacting our intake team today.
