Anxiety

What are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions characterized by fear, anxiousness, or being on edge. These disorders are common, though sometimes debilitating. They may prevent you from socializing in a healthy way, leaving home, or even completing job duties effectively. Fortunately, treatment with Dr. Amiri offers lasting relief and an exceptional quality of life.

What are the different types of anxiety disorders?

Examples of the various forms of anxiety disorders include:

• Agoraphobia: intense fear of being overwhelmed in enclosed spaces, large crowds, or other places outside of your home
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): unrealistic worry, fear, or feeling overwhelmed in everyday situations
• Panic disorder: an anxiety disorder causing unexpected panic attacks (shortness of breath, increased heart rate, extreme fear, etc.)
• Social anxiety disorder: ongoing, intense fears about being in social situations or judged negatively by other people
• Separation anxiety disorder: excessive anxious feelings when separated from a loved one
• Phobias: intense fear of specific places or objects, such as spiders, snakes, enclosed spaces, heights, flying, or needles
• Selective mutism: not talking in specific situations because of anxiety or fear

The type and severity of anxiety disorder you struggle with determines how to best treat your condition.

What are the symptoms of anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are characterized by the following symptoms:

• Problems concentrating
• Ongoing panic, uneasiness, worry, or fear
• Irritability
• Feeling on edge
• Obsessive or uncontrolled thoughts
• Restlessness
• Heart palpitations 
• Muscle tension
• Sweaty hands
• Problems falling or staying asleep
• Shortness of breath during panic attacks

Risk factors for anxiety disorders include past trauma, family history of anxiety disorders, stress, other mental health disorders, medical conditions, and certain personality traits — such as being shy.

How are anxiety disorders diagnosed?

Dr. Amiri discusses your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms to determine if you have an anxiety disorder or similar condition. He completes a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation by asking a series of questions and uses GeneSight® genetic testing to learn how your genetic makeup may affect the effectiveness of specific medications. 

How are anxiety disorders treated?

Treating anxiety disorders often consists of making lifestyle adjustments, taking medications, and undergoing psychotherapy, such as exposure therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Dr. Amiri tailors a treatment plan that offers exceptional, lasting outcomes. 

Schedule an anxiety disorder evaluation with Dr. Rod Amiri by calling his office or requesting a visit online today.