It’s natural for everyone to occasionally feel overwhelmed or stressed. However, when does everyday stress cross the line into something more serious like anxiety? Keep reading to understand the signs of anxiety, its symptoms, and treatment options so you can make informed decisions when it comes to your mental health.
Anxiety is a natural response to stress that involves feeling tense, having worried thoughts, and experiencing physical changes in the body. This response, also known as the “fight-or-flight” response, evolved as a survival technique that allowed our ancestors to react quickly to life-threatening situations. When we perceive danger, our bodies release stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, preparing us to either confront the threat or flee to safety.
While this response can be helpful in dangerous situations, it can become problematic when it’s activated too frequently or intensely in everyday life. Research suggests that chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to:
Anxiety is also one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting over 40 million adults in the United States alone.
Often used interchangeably, fear and anxiety are actually very distinct from one another. Fear, for example, is a reaction to a specific and observable danger in the present moment. It has clear boundaries and often goes away when the threat passes. An example is being startled by a car suddenly swerving toward you.
On the other hand, anxiety is more diffuse and focused on the future. It often lacks a specific focus and lasts even in the absence of immediate danger. Anxiety frequently involves anticipating potential threats rather than responding to current ones.
When we experience something that feels like fear but lacks an immediate physical danger, we’re likely experiencing anxiety. Anxiety often results from suppressing emotions and needs. In other words, the body expends energy to push down feelings, which creates a state of heightened alertness and tension.
Anxiety can manifest in many different ways as it’s not a single mental health condition on its own. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), common anxiety disorders include:
Many people experience symptoms that may not fully match the criteria for a specific disorder but still significantly affects their quality of life. In this case, they may be diagnosed with an unspecified anxiety disorder.
Anxiety can affect both your mind and your body. Symptoms usually begin during childhood or adolescence and may continue into adulthood if left unaddressed.
There’s a gut-brain connection in the body, which can result in some of the physical symptoms of anxiety. Essentially, this communication system means that a part of the body that’s in distress will send a signal to the brain and vice versa. Some of the most common physical symptoms include:
Anxiety can also affect your thinking patterns and behavior through symptoms like:
It’s also worth mentioning that anxiety frequently occurs alongside depression. Some estimates show that 60% of those with anxiety also experience symptoms of depression, which can contribute or exacerbate the mental symptoms of anxiety.
The good news is that anxiety is treatable. Most providers will recommend one or a combination of treatments, including medication or therapy.
There are several medication classes approved for the treatment of anxiety:
Healthcare providers typically recommend SSRIs or SNRIs as first-line treatments due to their overall tolerability and effectiveness. Be aware that finding the right medication requires patience. It can take several weeks to notice improvement, and symptoms sometimes temporarily increase during the first two weeks of treatment.
*Used sparingly due to potential dependence
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective non-medication option for treating anxiety. It’s based on the principle that thoughts influence feelings and behaviors and help identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns.
The theory behind behavioral therapy assumes that because human behavior is learned, it can be changed or learned in a different way. Techniques used in CBT include:
Aside from medication and therapy, there are other approaches that may help ease some of your symptoms. For instance, one option to consider is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Research shows this non-invasive brain stimulation procedure can reduce anxiety symptoms, with one study finding an average 14-point reduction on anxiety measures (GAD-7). Other options include:
These approaches often work best when integrated with conventional treatments rather than used as replacements.
By understanding the signs of anxiety, you can get the proper treatment, allowing you to lead a more fulfilling life. If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it may be time to reach out for professional support. The team at Cura Behavioral Health specializes in anxiety treatment that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of anxiety disorders. Contact us today to learn more.
Understanding the stress response – Harvard Health Publishing
What’s the Difference Between Anxiety and Fear? – Psychology Today
DSM-5 Table of Contents – American Psychiatric Association
Anxiety disorders – World Health Organization
The Comorbidity of Anxiety and Depression – NAMI
In brief: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – InformedHealth .org
Determining if TMS therapy suits your mental health journey should involve consultation with a qualified professional. At Cura Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed treatment decisions.
Don’t let a mental health condition hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with Cura Behavioral Health today. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
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Dr. Kevin Simonson, an esteemed Medical Director at Cura Behavioral Health, brings over 15 years of experience in psychiatry. A graduate from a top medical school, he specializes in the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety, employing a patient-centered approach. His dedication to evidence-based care and his commitment to advancing mental health practices have made him a respected figure in the field. Dr. Simonson’s leadership ensures the highest standard of care for the community at Cura Behavioral Health.
