In these turbulent times, it is very basic for us to get anxious and feel panicky from time to time. In fact tiny anxiety is good for our health as it keeps us focused, alert, and motivated. But if you are constantly worried, have irrational fears, experience sudden heart-pounding panic attacks and if your sleep and food patterns have changed drastically, then it is time that you get medical help as you might be suffering from anxiety disorder.
Anxiety attacks, also known as panic attacks usually occur suddenly, with or without a trigger. One might suddenly begin feeling overwhelming panic, trembling or shaking, nausea, belly cramps, hot flashes or chill etc when confronted with a situation or place they don’t like, or sometimes it happens without any reason at all
But there is no require to worry as anxiety and panic disorders are treatable. Before starting with the treatment, a psychotherapist will do a complete diagnostic evaluation through an interview and review of medical records. This will help in identifying the type of anxiety disorder you are suffering and also check if there is any medical condition triggering it.
There are 6 types of anxiety disorders – Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorders, Phobia, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, and Social Anxiety Disorder.
Depending on the type and its severity a psychotherapist will prescribe a particular treatment approach for the anxiety disorder. Anxiety and panic disorders are generally treated with either behavioral therapy, medical treatment, or if required, a combination of both.
Medication:
Generally a psychotherapist prescribes antidepressant, tranquilizers, and anti-stress and anti-panic drugs. But these are prescribed for only a short time frame, so as to stop the anxiety disorder from interfering with normal life.
Behavioral Therapy:
Behavioral therapy is also used as a treatment for anxiety and panic disorders. There are 2 types of behavioral therapies – Cognitive-behavior Therapy and Exposure Therapy.
Cognitive-behavior Therapy:
This type of therapy is used to identify the negative thought and irrational beliefs and then challenge them headlong.
Exposure Therapy:
In this type of therapy, your psychotherapist will make you confront your fears in a controlled environment. This type of therapy will help you in gaining a sense of control over your fears.
Apart from the medical help, you can also do the following that will help you in taking control of your situation:
1. Exercise Daily:
By exercising, you will be capable to manage your anxieties and also burn those stress chemicals and become relaxed.
2. Take Proper Diet:
Having a appropriate diet is very important. Include lots of leafy vegetables, entire grain food, and low fat in your diet. Avoid nicotine and caffeine, as they might aggravate your symptoms.
3. Learn to Relax:
Learn to rest and take out time to enjoy. Enroll in a dance class, or begin spending some time on your hobby.
4. Get all the Emotional Support You Can:
It is always great to be surrounded by people who love and care for you. Don’t be shy to take some emotional support from your friends and family. They will be more than happy to be there for you.
Born and brought up in India, I am a writer at heart. I love to research and write on various topics and especially those which involves mysteries, unsolved truths, and ancient histories, like Bermuda Triangle, Past Life Regression, Harappan Civilization, to mention a few.
Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/stress-management-articles/defeat-anxiety-disorders-your-guide-to-its-symptoms-and-treatment-1494101.html
