Anxiety Treatment

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a common mental health disorder that causes intense, persistent, and distressing fears and worries. There are several types of anxiety, including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, separation anxiety, panic disorder, and specific phobias. 

Anxiety causes various mental and physical symptoms, including:

• Persistent and intrusive fears and worries
• Reduced concentration
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Sweating 
• Trembling
• Muscle tension
• Gastrointestinal symptoms

Left untreated, anxiety often becomes more severe and has an increasingly negative impact on your health and quality of life. However, with treatment, you can relieve your fears and learn techniques to manage your thoughts, emotions, and actions. 

What is depression?

Depression is another common mental health disorder. It causes feelings of extreme sadness and despair that intensify over time. Depression can affect every aspect of your life, from your relationships with friends and family to your ability to perform at work. 

Common signs of depression include:

• Persistent sad, empty, or hopeless feelings
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Feelings of guilt or helplessness
• Changes in sleep habits
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Low energy and fatigue
• Increased irritability or short temper
• Unexplained body aches, headaches, or digestive problems

Depression can also trigger thoughts of death and suicide. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room for help if you’re seriously considering suicide or self-harm. 

When should I talk to a doctor about anxiety and depression?

Depression and anxiety usually develop slowly, and you might not notice changes in your mood, emotions, or actions. However, when you see that your mood or worries affect your behavior and quality of life, make an appointment at Spring Valley Internal Medicine.

The team provides thorough mental health assessments to diagnose your condition. Once your provider understands your needs, they create customized treatment programs to alleviate your symptoms and restore your health and quality of life. 

How do you treat anxiety and depression?

While your treatment plan is tailored to meet your needs, the team often combines medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to address anxiety and depression.

Medication can regulate your brain chemistry and reduce your symptoms. It could take several weeks or even a couple of months for your prescription to take effect. Stay patient and don’t give up. 

Your provider might recommend therapy to help you explore and resolve the underlying issues that contribute to your condition. You might also learn and practice strategies to cope with your thoughts and feelings. 

Many patients also benefit from making healthy lifestyle adjustments. You might find that changing your diet, adding exercise to your day, or following a strict routine when you wake up or prepare for bed improves your health and mood.

Call Spring Valley Internal Medicine or schedule a consultation online today if you’re concerned about anxiety or depression.