Anxiety
Experiencing anxiety occasionally is normal. Anxiety may arise when problems confront us, prior to a test, or when making a life-altering choice. A disorder involving anxiety, though, is a far cry from temporary fear or worry. Overwhelming, persistent, and uncontrollable anxiety that interferes with relationships, school work, or job performance is cause for concern. Approximately 40 million of the adult, American population are afflicted by anxiety disorders, making them among the most common psychiatric illness in adults and children. Despite this prevalence and the fact that these disorders can be treated, only about one in three sufferers will get appropriate treatment.
Types of Anxiety
Generalized anxiety
Generalized anxiety is characterized by persistent, excessive, and unrealistic worry about everyday things such as finances, the future, health, job status, relationships, etc…
Selective mutism
A child with selective mutism communicates and speaks freely only in situations in which he/she is secure, relaxed and comfortable. In some social settings, like at school, the child may be unable to effectively communicate or speak.
Social anxiety
Social anxiety is a fear of being embarrassed or judged by others in social or performance situations. This anxiety can significantly interfere with the individual’s daily routines, social life, and educational or occupational performance.
Separation anxiety
Being away from a caregiver or parent may put a child in extreme distress; this is known as separation anxiety.
Specific phobias
A specific phobia is an acute fear of a specific situation or object, such as heights or closed spaces.
Treatment
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) zeroes in on the relationships between an individual’s behavior, feelings, and thoughts. The therapist and client will collaborate to evaluate and challenge harmful thought patterns. The client will be taught coping techniques for managing stressful situations as well as strategies for overcoming the physical symptoms of anxiety. CBT has been proven, by researchers, to be among the most effective of treatments for anxiety. You may worry about whether you will overcome these problems on your own. When in doubt, consult with a licensed mental health provider. If you or a loved one is suffering from anxiety it is imperative to get treatment as soon as possible as better results are more likely achieved when started early. Anxiety is treatable and Dr. Racine can help.
If you are unsure of whether you or a loved one may benefit from therapy, contact Dr. Racine for a free consultation.