Have you ever had a dream where you’re running from something, but your legs refuse to move? No matter how much effort you exert, you feel like you’re moving through Jello. The frustration from this lack of control is amplified by the fear of whatever you’re running from.
In a way, that’s what having an anxiety disorder feels like. You’re on-edge, scared, and feel helpless. No matter what you do, you can’t control your worries and fears. Your mind rushes to the worst possibilities, and you can’t concentrate on anything else.
Anxiety can disrupt your life by making everyday tasks feel scary. Addressing prolonged feelings of stress and anxiety can reduce their impact and help you live a happier, healthier life. Just as a doctor can mend a broken bone, anxiety can be treated by a skilled mental health professional using techniques like talk therapy and prescription medication.
If you want to work with a licensed mental health professional to discuss your anxiety, call our office today at Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI.
Most Common Anxiety Disorders and Symptoms
There are many different kinds of anxiety disorders that present themselves differently. Working with a therapist, counselor, psychiatrist, or another mental health professional can help you diagnose anxiety and work on an action plan to reduce its symptoms.
Some of the most common types of anxiety include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): This disorder is defined by chronic anxiety without a specific cause, lasting for at least six months. People with GAD can feel anxious in a wide range of situations.
- Social anxiety disorder: Also known as social phobia, this disorder causes people to feel overwhelming fear and self-consciousness in social situations.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): OCD is characterized by unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors, such as checking, counting, and cleaning. These behaviors can provide temporary relief from obsessive thoughts but ultimately cause more anxiety.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): This is a disorder that can develop after experiencing an extreme physical or emotional event.
- Panic disorder: People with a panic disorder experience panic attacks, which are intense episodes of fear involving chest tightness, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and lightheadedness. Panic attacks can be intense, so someone with a panic disorder might spend a lot of time and effort avoiding future attacks.
Do you think you’re struggling with anxiety? Consider reaching out to a professional from Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI today. One of our team members can help you schedule your first appointment today.
Counseling and Therapy for Anxiety: What To Expect
Therapists and counselors typically help people with anxiety through the use of psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy. Your provider will get to know you and your mental health goals before creating a customized treatment plan that considers your needs.
This process will start in your early sessions when your therapist takes the time to get to know you and your concerns. You’re in the driver’s seat throughout the therapeutic process. Your mental health provider will create a space for a comfortable guided discussion, but the process is collaborative in nature. You’ll set the tone, pace, and topics that you discuss during each session.
There are many types of therapy that can help with anxiety. For example, a counselor who practices cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) might focus on challenging unhealthy and inaccurate thoughts and beliefs in order to replace them with more objective and realistic thought patterns. This style of therapy can sometimes involve assignments such as journaling or stress reduction techniques. You’ll work with your provider to integrate any insights from these assignments into your life.
Medication can be another important part of some treatment plans for anxiety. Anti-anxiety medications can reduce the symptoms of anxiety and make them more manageable. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications directly, and a therapist or counselor can work with a psychiatrist to find the right medication for a client as needed.
Working with a mental health professional can help you manage your anxiety and live a happier, calmer life. Consider calling our office today to set up your first appointment.
Schedule an Appointment With a Thriveworks Counselor in Appleton, WI
Are you grappling with anxiety? Counselors and therapists from Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI, can create a compassionate, judgment-free space for you to discuss your anxiety and find ways to move forward.
We don’t believe in waitlists, and you might be able to work with a counselor sooner than you think. We also offer a flexible cancellation policy , and we accept many major health insurance plans to help you afford treatment.
Working with a mental health professional can help you manage your anxiety and learn how to move past it. Call our office today at Thriveworks Counseling in Appleton, WI, to get started
