Anxiety Disorder Diagnosis and Treatment in Seattle, WA
Feelings of fear, worry, or stress brought on by anxiety can be effectively managed with the right treatment.
At Grand Canyon Psychiatric Services in Seattle, WA, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Peter Njogu and his expert team specialize in diagnosing and treating Anxiety Disorders online, helping individuals regain focus and thrive in both work and school settings.
We now offer convenient online consultations. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment
Anxiety Disorder Symptoms & Treatment- Questions and Answers
What is Anxiety Disorder?
The National Institute of Mental Health explains that “occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. Many people worry about health, finances, or family matters. However, anxiety disorders go beyond temporary worry or fear. For those with an anxiety disorder, the anxiety persists and may worsen over time, affecting daily activities like work, school, and relationships.”
While feeling anxious is a common human experience, if it becomes a daily struggle, it’s important to seek professional help. Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Seattle, WA, offers effective online treatment to help manage and alleviate the symptoms of anxiety disorders
What are anxiety disorder symptoms?
Common symptoms of anxiety you may experience include:
– Rapid heartbeat
– Constant worry or fear
– Sweating
– Trembling
– Digestive issues
– Restlessness or nervousness
– Difficulty focusing
– Irritability
– Overwhelming sense of dread
Anxiety symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, may lead you to avoid certain people, places, or situations that trigger these feelings. Everyday triggers that seem insignificant to others can evoke intense fear in those with anxiety. Seeking support from a qualified psychiatrist or mental health professional is the best way to manage these symptoms and regain control of your life
What are the risk factors for anxiety disorders?
Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in the development of anxiety disorders. Some common risk factors include:
- A family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions due to genetic predisposition
- Childhood shyness or discomfort in unfamiliar situations
- Exposure to stressful or traumatic life events
- Co-occurring mental or physical health issues
- Substance use or abuse
For an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of anxiety, it is important to consult a healthcare provider for a comprehensive physical examination. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing anxiety symptoms
How are anxiety disorders diagnosed?
To determine whether you may be dealing with an anxiety disorder, the team at Grand Canyon Psychiatry conducts a thorough evaluation. This process includes discussing your thoughts, emotions, lifestyle habits, medications, and medical history.
In addition, our online psychiatric healthcare professionals offer pharmacogenomic testing to identify which medications are most compatible with your genetic makeup. Based on your individual needs, we create a personalized treatment plan to help manage your symptoms effectively
How are anxiety disorders Treated?
Anxiety disorders are typically managed through psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. With various treatment options available, the team at Grand Canyon Psychiatry is here to help you find the most effective approach tailored to your individual needs.
1. Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, often referred to as “talk therapy,” is an effective way to help individuals overcome anxiety disorders. To be truly effective, therapy must target your specific anxieties and be customized to your unique needs.
a.) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
CBT is a highly effective treatment for individuals with anxiety disorders. This method helps patients reshape their thought patterns, behaviors, and emotional responses to reduce anxiety and fear. Extensively researched, CBT is considered the gold standard in psychotherapy.
One component of CBT is Exposure Therapy, which aims to confront and address the fears that fuel anxiety disorders. This technique encourages individuals to face the situations they’ve been avoiding. In some cases, exposure therapy is combined with relaxation techniques for greater effectiveness.
b.) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT):
ACT is another effective treatment option for anxiety disorders. Unlike CBT, ACT emphasizes accepting negative thoughts rather than trying to change them. By incorporating mindfulness techniques and focusing on goal-setting, ACT helps reduce anxiety and discomfort while improving emotional well-being
2. Medication Management
If anti-anxiety medication is necessary, Grand Canyon Psychiatry in Seattle, WA, can prescribe the appropriate medications to help manage your symptoms. We also provide online medication management to monitor your progress, ensure the medication is effective, and minimize any potential side effects.
3. Lifestyle Counselling
In the early stages, anxiety disorders can often be managed through healthy lifestyle changes. Incorporating nutritious meals, getting adequate rest, reducing stress, and using to-do lists to stay organized can significantly improve your well-being. Maintaining a consistent routine and breaking large tasks into smaller, manageable steps can also enhance your mental health and help reduce anxiety symptoms over time
To take control of your anxious feelings and receive compassionate and professional online treatment for Anxiety Disorders in Seattle, WA, call our office at (480) 716-8473 to book your consultation.
