Anxiety treatment: Find anxiety relief with a psychiatrist

Our team helps people with anxiety all the time. We understand that simply making an appointment can feel daunting. Know that we’re here to help and easy to reach. You can book online, text us, and meet your psychiatrist from the comfort of your home.

Key facts

  • Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults — nearly 1 in 5 people.
  • There are more than 10 categories of anxiety disorders, each with distinct symptoms and treatments.
  • Medication and therapy can help reduce anxiety.

What are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety is a normal response to stress that helps us stay alert and focused, especially in challenging situations like facing a big presentation, preparing for a test, or making an important decision. While mild anxiety can be beneficial, anxiety disorders involve excessive fear or worry that persists over time and can become overwhelming.

 

Anxiety disorders affect nearly 30% of adults at some point in their lives, interfering with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork, and personal relationships. These disorders can lead people to avoid situations that trigger their anxiety, which may further impact their quality of life.

 

Here are some common anxiety disorders:

 

  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) involves persistent worry about various aspects of life.
  • Panic disorder causes unexpected panic attacks, where you feel a wave of fear and physical symptoms.
  • Social anxiety disorder leads to intense fear of social situations and potential judgment.
  • Specific phobias, or irrational fears of specific objects or situations.
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors to reduce anxiety.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after experiencing a traumatic event, leading to flashbacks and severe anxiety.
  • Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) comes from intense fear or anxiety about separation from home or family, commonly seen in children.

If your anxiety seems excessive, lingers, or disrupts your daily activities, it’s time to reach out for help. Treatment can help you lead a more fulfilling life. Your first step is to connect with a psychiatrist who can diagnose you, help you understand your anxiety, and guide you through your treatment options.

63%

of people with anxiety don’t seek treatment, even though these disorders are highly treatable. (ADAA)

What are the symptoms of anxiety disorders?

Common anxiety signs and symptoms can be emotional, physical, or a combination.

 

  • Nervousness or restlessness
  • Racing heart or rapid breathing
  • Excessive sweating or trembling
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Upset stomach or GI discomfort
  • Irritability or feeling on edge
  • Avoiding triggers or situations
  • Difficulty making decisions

 

Anxiety disorders share common symptoms, but each type also has its unique set of signs. Because the symptoms can vary significantly, it’s important to consult a psychiatric care provider for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Text us anytime! 

We make it easy to schedule your appointments, and if you need anything between visits, your provider is just a message away!

What causes anxiety disorders?

The causes of anxiety disorders aren’t fully understood, but they likely involve a mix of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

 

Life experiences, particularly traumatic events, can trigger anxiety in those already prone to it. For example, someone who has faced significant stress may find their anxiety heightened in similar situations.

 

Inherited traits also play a role. If anxiety runs in your family, you might be more susceptible to experiencing it yourself.

 

Anxiety can even be linked to underlying health issues such as:

 

 

If you notice that your anxiety appears suddenly and seems unrelated to any life events, it’s important to consult a doctor. They may conduct tests to rule out any medical issues affecting your mental health.

 

Understanding the various causes of anxiety can empower you to take the next steps toward feeling better.

Psychiatry vs. therapy

Your mental health team is here to support you in different ways.
Psychiatrist
Therapist

Medical professional

Manages medications

Supports you in difficult times

Focuses on talk therapy

What treatments help with anxiety disorders?

Most people respond well to two treatments, and you can do one or both:

 

 

Medications for anxiety disorders typically include anti-anxiety medications and specific antidepressants. Some medications may be more effective for particular types of anxiety disorders.

 

Work with your psychiatric care provider to determine which medication is right for you. You may need to try more than one medicine before you find the right one.

How it works

woman-telehealth-phonescreen

Feeling anxious right now? Get instant relief 

Here are some practical tips to help you feel less anxious in this moment.

 

Breathe. 

Take slow, deep breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can help calm your nervous system and reduce anxiety.

 

Ground yourself.  

Use the 5-4-3-2-1 technique. Identify 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste. This brings you back to the present moment and helps distract you from anxious thoughts.

 

Move your body by taking a short walk or stretching a little.

About Silver Arrow Psychiatric Care

Our psychiatry practice provides in-network care to adults and children across Kansas and Missouri. We treat people with a range of mental health conditions through virtual and in-person appointments, usually with same-day availability.

Ready to get the help you deserve?