Anxiety

Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety and Anxiety Related Disorders:

  • Feeling nervous, restless, tense or on edge

  • Having a sense of impending, panic, danger or doom

  • Having an increased heart rate without increased activity

  • Breathing rapidly or hyperventilating

  • Trembling or Shaking

  • Fatigue - Feeling weak or tired

  • Trouble concentrating or thinking about things apart from your concern or worry

  • Trouble sleeping - Falling asleep or staying asleep

  • Gastrointestinal (GI) problems

  • Difficulty controlling thought traffic or worry

  • A desire to or practice of avoiding things that trigger anxiety



Some Types of Anxiety Disorder:

  • Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety - Anxiety symptoms that begin three months after an identifiable stressor, which impact function and coping.

  • Agoraphobia - fear or avoidance of public, open, and/or closed spaces

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder - anxiety or worry about daily life, health, work, and/or social situations

  • Panic Disorder - a sudden rush of intense fear or anxiety (e.g. shaking, sweating, breathing difficulty, feelings of doom)

  • Social Anxiety Disorder - intense fear or anxiety about social and performance situations

  • Separation Anxiety Disorder - fear of separation from someone to whom you are attached



Treatment Strategies:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - CBT is a method of therapy that supports the individual to learn new skills related to thought, behavior, and coping, which challenge anxiety symptoms.

  • Mindfulness and Mindful Practice - Mindfulness is a process through which one learns to be fully present without judgement; to be present to the mind body connection, which encourages a peaceful mind.

  • Meditation - Meditation is a relaxation practice, which supports focus, clarity, and relaxation. Types of Meditation: guided meditation, sleep meditation, mindfulness meditation, and independent practice.

  • Holistic Care - TCC seeks to empower individuals in understanding the mind body connection. Individuals are encouraged to maintain annual visits with their physical health providers. Individuals are supported in exploring how their diet and activity levels could be impacting symptoms.



Treatment Screening Tools:

  • DASS 21

  • GAD7

  • PCL-C



Additional Treatment Options:

  • Group Therapy - A treatment model where a qualified provider supports individuals experiencing similar presenting concerns to explore their circumstances and provide support.

  • Medication Management - A method of treatment administered by a licensed provider, which can help to reduce symptoms. Therapy is recommended for individuals utilizing medication for a mental health disorder.