How to Deal With Anxiety Attacks

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How to Deal With Anxiety Attacks

Managing anxiety requires a change in thinking patterns. While some treatments focus on reducing anxiety symptoms through medication, others work towards improving overall wellbeing. Stress management techniques, like mindfulness and meditation, can help people deal with the symptoms of anxiety. These exercises can also help them sleep better at night. Positive thinking and cognitive behavioral therapy are also good methods for dealing with anxiety.

Anxiety is often caused by stressful or traumatic events. The symptoms of anxiety disorder can mimic physical ailments, and a medical evaluation can rule out any underlying medical conditions. Anxiety scales and tests can be used to determine the severity of the condition and suggest possible treatment options. Once a diagnosis is made, a person can start treatment.

Generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD, is the most common type of anxiety disorder and affects a large number of people. This disorder causes persistent, excessive worry that interferes with daily life. It may include symptoms such as butterflies in the stomach, racing heart, or irritability. People with GAD also experience a high level of fatigue, lack of concentration, and light-headedness.

Symptoms of anxiety can also be caused by underlying physical conditions such as heart, lung, or thyroid problems. A physical exam is necessary to rule out any underlying problems. Other risk factors include having a history of mental health disorders and childhood sexual abuse, which has been linked to anxiety later in life. A therapist can help to determine a course of treatment.

Treatment options for anxiety disorders include medications and psychotherapy. Medications often provide significant relief from symptoms, and psychotherapy is sometimes referred to as talk therapy. Treatment approaches vary depending on the type of anxiety disorder and the severity of the symptoms. Psychotherapy is an effective option for most anxiety disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy uses behavioral techniques to help patients identify distorted thinking patterns and challenge irrational beliefs.

Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be used to treat anxiety. However, many of these medicines have unwanted and even dangerous side effects, and people should discuss the risks and benefits of a medication with a physician before taking one. Oftentimes, psychotherapy and self-help strategies are just as effective as medications for anxiety.

Anxiety is an incredibly uncomfortable and frightening condition. During an anxiety attack, the person will feel intense fear and terror for as short as ten minutes. These attacks are often accompanied by physical symptoms and are often mistaken for heart attacks. During these attacks, people worry about having another attack in public or going crazy.

Although anxiety is a normal emotion, some people find it difficult to control it. For them, it can be exhausting and hinder daily living.