What to Expect When You Have an Anxiety Disorder
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What to Expect When You Have an Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorders are not only a normal reaction to stress, but they can also become disruptive and affect your daily life. People with anxiety experience a variety of symptoms, including feelings of restlessness and worry, trembling, rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of being overwhelmed. If you have an anxiety disorder, there are treatments that can help you feel more in control. You may also want to consider a support group to learn more about what to expect during treatment.
The first thing to do when you or a loved one has an anxiety disorder is to discuss your situation with your health care provider. This will allow the provider to determine the best way to treat your condition. In addition, you will have the opportunity to work with a professional therapist to learn new ways to cope with your fears. Often, medication can be used to reduce or eliminate the physical symptoms of an anxiety disorder. However, you should be aware that medications can come with a number of side effects.
Benzodiazepines are another type of medication that are often used to relieve the symptoms of an anxiety disorder. These drugs work quickly and usually provide relief within 30 minutes to an hour. They can be very effective during a panic attack. But they are not recommended for long-term use.
Other medicines that can be used to treat anxiety include beta blockers. Beta blockers are often used to treat high blood pressure and heart problems, but they can also be effective in reducing the physical symptoms of anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is another type of therapy that can help you manage your symptoms. It teaches you how to recognize troubled thoughts, change your behavior, and deal with anxiety. Unlike some medications, it is not recommended for long-term use, but it can be helpful if you have an anxiety disorder.
Exercise can also be an effective anxiety treatment. Practicing tai chi or yoga can engage your mind and body. Meditation can also help you relax, which can lower your stress.
Another important component to managing an anxiety disorder is to learn how to cope with your emotions. There are many techniques available, but some of the most helpful are: avoiding stressful situations, learning to cope with anger, and practicing mindfulness. For many, a good support network can make a big difference in how well you cope with your anxiety.
Managing an anxiety disorder is not an easy task. But there are steps you can take to help your loved one. Some of these steps involve talking to your loved one, recognizing the signs of an anxiety attack, and finding ways to support them.
Your loved one’s doctor will also evaluate his or her symptoms, which can include a number of physical symptoms. He or she may order a physical exam and lab tests. During the evaluation, the doctor will ask you a series of questions to assess your symptoms.