You are not alone! Anxiety is the most common presenting concern for people seeking any form psychological help. An estimated 19.1% of U.S. adults experience an anxiety disorder in a given year. Past year prevalence of any anxiety disorder was higher for females (23.4%) than for males (14.3%). An estimated 31.1% of U.S. adults experience any anxiety disorder at some time in their lives (Harvard Medical School, 2007).
We specialize in several of the most common treatment approaches for anxiety, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Mindfulness-based approaches and DBT skills.
Worry forms a foundation for anxiety.
When our rational, normal fear crosses over to worry, it begins to feed our anxiety. Worry can involve a range of persistent thoughts and images that tend to build or grow, often without our complete awareness of what is happening or the negative impact our worry is having on our bodies and minds.
Some amount of anxiety is adaptive and important for optimal functioning. In moderate amounts, it can actually provide motivation and improve concentration. When anxiety reaches the point of causing significant distress or work/educational, social, or personal impairment, it may be classified as an anxiety disorder.
The experience of anxiety can range from persistent or excessive worry that is difficult to control and involves a wide range of everyday concerns (Generalized Anxiety) to acute anxiety that is often experienced as coming out of nowhere and is often triggered by physical sensations (Panic Attack) and can reoccur with ongoing fears of reoccurrence (Panic disorder). Some people experience intense anxiety across a range of public experiences (Social Anxiety), and others are fearful in places where they believe it would be difficult obtain help if they become anxious (Agoraphobia). The experience of anxiety can be highly specific (Phobia) or it can involve obsessive thoughts and behaviors (Obsessive Compulsive disorder). Anxiety can also be related to medical concerns, substance use, or experiences of trauma. People may also have a combination of these experiences and not every experience of anxiety can be easily classified into these categories.
If anxiety is keeping you from living the life you want, please consider contacting us to discuss how we might work together to improve your well-being.
