Before an important test at school, two students are looking at their computer screens. One is tapping her fingers on the desk and bouncing her feet. She’s nervous about the exam but ready for it. She tries to stop tapping her fingers and begins.
Another student is sweating. Her heart is racing, she’s experiencing shortness of breath, and she feels as though the room is getting smaller. These feelings are not new. In fact, they seem to be growing worse and her parents are concerned.
The difference? One student is feeling a natural pang of anxiety, which accompanies many stressful situations. Many of us learn to navigate those moments and often become stronger from them.
The other, meanwhile, could be suffering from an anxiety disorder. In her case, the feelings of anxiety are so strong that they cause physical symptoms. Those feelings can be disruptive and interfere significantly with her schoolwork and her relationships.
Anxiety disorders are common and highly treatable. Through therapy, those facing anxiety and stress disorders can learn ways to cope with their symptoms and thrive. If you think you might need anxiety counseling, consider making an appointment at Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health disorders in America, affecting more than 25 million people, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Because of that, many people are familiar with their symptoms.
But there are many types of anxiety and they can affect people in different ways. In acute situations, anxiety can cause shortness of breath, dizziness, or chest tightness. Other anxiety symptoms include:
- Excessive worry or panic
- A heart-racing sensation
- Exhaustion and difficulty sleeping
- Chronic tenseness or agitation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sweating that can’t be explained
- Chronic dry mouth
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
- Panic attacks
- Social anxiety
Your anxiety symptoms could be the result of one or several factors. Stressful situations at work or school, conflicts in your relationships, and painful childhood events can all play a role. Brain chemistry or genetics might contribute as well.
If you’ve been experiencing one or more anxiety symptoms, consider making an appointment at Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA. We can help address your concerns and get you back on the life path you want.
Getting Help — What To Expect From Anxiety Therapy
Generally, those diagnosed with an anxiety disorder have a level of anxiety that is disproportionate to the anxiety-provoking situation they face. Sometimes, they experience symptoms that prevent them from functioning normally. Thankfully, anxiety counseling can help you confront those stressors and learn to effectively manage your symptoms.
Treatment for anxiety can take a variety of methods. Counselors often will use psychotherapy, or talk therapy, to assess your situation and help you work through anxiety triggers. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a well-regarded form of talk therapy used to teach people ways to identify and change their negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Through exposure therapy, another type of therapy, clients are slowly exposed to things or events that cause them anxiety, which can lessen their negative impact over time. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), on the other hand, helps teach clients how to acknowledge and accept their emotions, rather than trying to change or deny them. Behavioral changes are still possible and encouraged in ACT — the difference is that clients learn how to make those changes without causing themselves unnecessary suffering.
Psychiatrists can also prescribe medication to reduce anxiety symptoms if that would be helpful for your situation. Treating anxiety often consists of a combination of methods, tailored to the client’s specific needs.
Anxiety counseling can help if you’re ready. Call today to schedule a session at Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA.
Talk With a Therapist at Thriveworks Counseling in Santa Cruz, CA
At Thriveworks, your mental health is our priority. We start by making it easy to see us. Appointment schedules are flexible, with night and weekend sessions available. If you’re new to us, Thriveworks offers you the opportunity to see a provider within 48 hours and sometimes even on the same day.
Need more flexibility? Thriveworks offers remote counseling sessions, which saves you the hassle of clearing two hours of the day for a one-hour appointment. It’s also helpful for those people uncomfortable with in-person counseling.
Thriveworks accepts many major insurance plans and offers additional benefits, such as community discussions and tutorials offering information and inspiration. We have a flexible cancellation policy and offer email and phone access to your provider between sessions.
When you’re ready to focus on yourself and manage your anxiety, consider making an appointment at Thriveworks in Santa Cruz, CA. We look forward to seeing you soon.
