Anxiety Disorder: What Are the Symptoms?

If you are experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder, then you should consult with a psychiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and to learn more about treatment options that are available to you. This review offers an in-depth look at the most notable and common symptoms that are associated with an anxiety disorder. The hope is to provide you with more information to determine if you or your loved one should consider a visit to a mental health professional for a more detailed evaluation and treatment recommendation.

The symptoms of anxiety disorder

Anyone who experiences severe nervousness, hyperventilation, a sense of danger or panic, sweating, trembling, or difficulty sleeping as a result of potential anxiety triggers may have an anxiety disorder. The following is a closer look at each symptom and specifically how it relates to anxiety.

Severe nervousness

A common symptom of patients who are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder is nervousness. Many feel as if they are tense and restless in anticipation of an event. Often, the nervousness is irrational, and many patients even realize the nervousness or fear is irrational but are not able to control it. This may affect the patient’s ability to function properly each day and be at their best in school, work, and in social situations.

Hyperventilation

Hyperventilation is a term used to describe rapid uncontrolled breathing, which is typically the result of severe anxiety or stress. This is a common symptom among patients who are diagnosed with anxiety disorder, especially while they are experiencing an anxiety attack. Hyperventilation can become dangerous to long-term health, and it is important to seek treatment if it occurs frequently.

A sense of danger or panic

Many with an anxiety disorder experience a sense of danger or panic, even in moments when the perceived risk is not great. If an irrational fear of danger or panic attack occurs, then visiting a psychiatrist to discuss the symptoms and determine the root cause for them is essential.

Sweating and trembling

Sweating and trembling are often associated with severe stress and anxiety. While everyone deals with stress from time to time, if severe stress becomes chronic and symptoms such as sweating hands and feet and trembling of the arms and legs occur as a result of the anxiety, then it is a sign of an anxiety disorder.

Difficulty sleeping

A lack of sleep can make anxiety worse. On the other hand, an anxiety disorder can also make sleep more challenging. Many with anxiety disorders find themselves lying in bed unable to fall asleep due to anxious feelings and thoughts. If this occurs, then it is time to see a psychiatrist for a diagnosis.

Avoiding potential triggers

Anxiety disorders can lead to avoiding possible triggers altogether. For example, individuals with a social anxiety disorder may shy away from situations where there are large gatherings. Part of anxiety disorder treatment involves dealing with these potential triggers head-on and overcoming them.

Anxiety disorder treatment options

It is important to discuss your symptoms and overall condition with a mental health professional before beginning any treatment plan. There are a range of anxiety disorder treatment options. The most notable and common types of anxiety disorder treatments include:

• Psychotherapy
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Other antidepressant medications
• Other anti-anxiety medications

Many mental health professionals recommend a combination of psychotherapy (e.g. cognitive behavioral therapy) and medications. Some patients only require psychotherapy to address their anxiety disorder. In other cases, some patients reduce their need for psychotherapy over time while continuing to take their medication.

The benefits of anxiety disorder treatment from a mental health professional

The good news is many patients are able to find relief from anxiety disorder symptoms through a proper treatment plan from a licensed mental health professional. The benefits of professional treatment include being able to:

• Improve mind and body function
• Develop better coping skills
• Improve important relationships
• Improve performance at school/work
• Increase confidence during stressful situations

The benefits are especially notable when the individual is in a stressful life situation, such as giving an important speech at work or school or dealing with the illness or death of a loved one. The type of treatment often dictates the benefits (e.g. CBT therapy, medication, etc.)

Our team helps patients with anxiety disorders

Call our team today to learn more about anxiety disorders. We can arrange a time for you to visit with us for a consultation, during which we can discuss your symptoms and treatment goals to help you overcome your symptoms in the short term as well as long term.

Get more information here: https://www.hopetmsofny.com or call Hope TMS and Neuropsychiatric Center at (646) 578-8152

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