Anxiety

Everyone gets scared or nervous on occasion, but when these emotional warnings short-circuit, they can evolve into an anxiety disorder. If you feel this way, you’re not alone — almost 20% of American adults have some form of anxiety disorder, but a majority are reluctant to seek help. Personalized care can make a profound difference in your well-being, and the team of compassionate providers at RapidRecovery TMS in Wilmington, North Carolina, can help you regain a sense of stability. Contact the office by phone or book an appointment online today to learn more.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a term for mental health disorders characterized by significant worry, uneasiness, distress, or panic attacks. These feelings may be vague, or you may feel constantly concerned about something impacting your safety, health, professional life, or relationships.

What causes anxiety?

You may become anxious if you have gone through trauma or have a family history of anxiety. Women are more likely to have anxiety, and hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstrual cycles may contribute to symptoms. 

How can I tell if I have anxiety?

Because emotions have such an impact on our well-being, you may experience internal and external signs of anxiety. The emotional symptoms of anxiety include:

• Chronic overthinking
• Irritability
• Dread or apprehension
• Restlessness
• Excessive tension
• Overestimating danger
• Difficulty focusing

Your physical symptoms may include:

• Rapid heart rate or a pounding pulse
• Hyperventilation or shortness of breath
• Trembling or sweating
• Hot flashes
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue

If these symptoms blindside you or you experience them without apparent cause, you may have a panic disorder. Seeking prompt and professional care ensures you get the treatment needed.

They can help you determine whether another condition is contributing to your anxiety, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

How will my anxiety be treated?

After a mental health evaluation, the RapidRecovery TMS team works with you to create a personalized treatment plan, which may include:

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is a proven method for treating anxiety. One form, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), helps you better understand the causes of your anxiety and process thoughts or situations that trigger you. 

If your anxiety contributes to phobias, exposure therapy can help you safely process your feelings and cope with objects or situations that cause excessive fear. 

Medications

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Lexapro®, Zoloft®, and Prozac® can alleviate anxiety. Your provider may prescribe benzodiazepines like Xanax® and Valium® if you have acute anxiety. However, they can be addictive and get prescribed more sparingly.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

TMS activates your brain and assists mood regulation, making it a valuable tool for treating anxiety and treatment-resistant depression.

Lifestyle modifications

You may benefit from small day-to-day changes. Your provider may encourage you to try journaling, support groups, hobbies, or physical activities, or changing your diet or exposure to substances.

Learn more about anxiety treatment at RapidRecovery TMS. Call the office or book a consultation online today.