Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, characterized by feelings of worry, fear, and nervousness. This common mental health disorder affects millions of people worldwide. It can manifest in different forms and is identified by its negative impacts on your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

Anxiety can cause emotional and physical symptoms.

Emotional Symptoms

These include:

• Excessive worry
• Restlessness
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Constant fear or panic

Physical Symptoms

These include:

• Palpitations
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Upset stomach
• Shortness of breath
• Muscle tension
• Headaches

Causes of anxiety can stem from genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and personal experiences. Trauma, stress, neglect, and abuse can also contribute to the onset of anxiety. Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid problems and heart disease, can play a role as well.

Treatment for anxiety can range from therapy to self-help strategies to medication. In many cases, a combination of treatments might be the best solution. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) involves identifying negative thoughts and behaviors that trigger anxiety and replacing them with more positive ones.

Mindfulness-based therapies, such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing, can also help manage anxiety symptoms by teaching you how to focus on the present moment and reduce stressful thoughts. A healthy sleep routine, exercise and good nutrition can improve symptoms as well.

Maria is also a licensed ketamine-assisted psychotherapist who partners with Journey Clinical to help patients experience breakthroughs. Maria might suggest lifestyle changes like avoiding substances that may trigger or worsen anxiety symptoms, such as alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine. She may also guide you on how to set realistic goals, prioritize tasks, and practice time management to reduce stress levels and prevent anxiety.