In the modern day, stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues seem to be everywhere. Most people are taught that feeling anxious and sad are normal human emotions, but it’s hard to see when the threshold is to seek medical attention.
How do I know if I have an anxiety disorder?If you have frequent, severe, and excessive worry about seemingly everyday things, you might have an anxiety disorder. If you seem to be repeatedly more worried about situations than everyone, you might need to get examined. Another sign that you have anxiety issues is when your anxiety interferes with everyday tasks. If you avoid places or situations because of these seemingly unfounded feelings of terror, you should talk to your primary care physician about getting screened.
What types of anxiety are there?There are a couple of types of anxiety. The most general form of anxiety is generalized anxiety disorder. This disorder implicates a generally high level of stress and anxiety, both in severity and frequency. Another common type of anxiety is social anxiety. This is very common in newer generations and relates to the fear of social settings and social interaction. Other specific phobias can also be tied to anxiety disorders.
How can I get screened and how does it work?The most accessible place to start if you think you may have an anxiety disorder is a medical professional. Some easy people to talk to can be your primary care or family physician, a psychiatrist, or a psychologist. These people can help screen you to see if you need treatment. When they screen you, they will perform a physical exam, recommend a blood test, and ask about your symptoms. All of these will help your doctor determine if another underlying medical condition is causing your issues.
When I get diagnosed, what does a typical treatment plan look like?Typical treatment plans involve two parts – psychotherapy and medications
Psychotherapy – This is what most people think of when we say therapy. It’s guided counseling with a licensed professional to help talk through your disorder. They will help you get to the root of your anxiety. They will also teach you specialized and personalized tricks and tips to help manage your disorder.
Medication – Most of the medications that you’ll receive for anxiety are generally antidepressants. They’ll help curb symptoms and make day-to-day life easier.
If you think that you may have an anxiety disorder, or if you have further questions, your primary care physician is always a good place to start. If you’re looking for a primary care physician in Plano, Irving, or Frisco, call us at 214-666-6259 or schedule an appointment in the contact tab above the post.
Author Jai Sammpath
