Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural human response to stress or perceived danger, characterized by feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease. While everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, for some people it can become persistent, overwhelming, or interfere with daily life. In these cases, anxiety may be considered a mental health concern that can benefit from support or treatment.
It can show up in a variety of ways, including persistent or excessive worry about everyday situations, feeling restless or unable to relax, difficulty concentrating or experiencing your mind "going blank," and physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, sweating, shaking, stomach upset, or headaches. It can also cause trouble sleeping—such as difficulty falling or staying asleep—and may lead people to avoid situations that trigger their anxiety, which can impact work, school, or relationships.
Anxiety can have wide-ranging physical effects on health, including headaches, muscle tension, stomach problems, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and sleep disturbances. Over time, chronic anxiety may weaken the immune system, increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease, exacerbate digestive issues, and contribute to ongoing fatigue and pain. These symptoms can impact daily functioning and overall wellbeing, highlighting the importance of addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of anxiety.
At Restorative Health, we recognize that each person’s experience of anxiety is unique. Our holistic, client-centered approach is designed to meet you where you are, helping you understand your feelings and develop personalized strategies for managing anxiety and improving your overall wellbeing. Managing and treating anxiety at Restorative Health can often include collaborative, integrative approaches that draw on a range of therapeutic techniques, lifestyle practices, and—when appropriate—medication, all tailored to support your path to healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of anxiety?
Common symptoms of anxiety include persistent worry or fear, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, trouble sleeping, and physical symptoms like a racing heart or upset stomach. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may interfere with daily activities.
What causes anxiety?
Anxiety can be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life experiences such as trauma or significant stress. Sometimes, anxiety develops without a clear cause, but it often results from a mix of biological and environmental influences.
How can I manage or reduce anxiety?
Effective strategies for managing anxiety include practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy sleep routine, and talking with a mental health professional. Therapy-especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-and, in some cases, medication, can be very helpful. Seeking support from loved ones and making lifestyle adjustments also play an important role in reducing anxiety.
Providers Who Treat Anxiety
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