How a Psychiatrist Treats Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. At Mental Health and Wellness Associates, our primary goal is to help our patients manage their anxiety and live their lives to the fullest. In this article, we will discuss the ways in which our top psychiatrists evaluate and treat anxiety.

The first step in treating anxiety is to identify the specific type of anxiety disorder you are experiencing. There are several specific types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and specific phobias. Once the specific type of anxiety disorder is identified, the treatment plan can be tailored to meet your specific needs and goals.

One of the most effective, and evidence-based, treatments for anxiety is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety and replacing them with positive ones. CBT also teaches patients coping strategies, such as relaxation techniques and mindfulness exercises, to help them manage their anxiety symptoms.

In addition to CBT, medication can be an effective treatment for anxiety. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. These medications appear to work by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood and reduce anxiety symptoms. Other medications, such as benzodiazepines, can also be used to treat anxiety, but they are typically only prescribed for short-term use due to their potential for addiction. There are other non-addictive and non-habit-forming medications that can be used as needed for situational or occasional anxiety symptoms. 

Another treatment option for anxiety is lifestyle changes. We help our patients reduce their anxiety symptoms by teaching and helping them to practice healthy habits such as getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet. We also encourage our patients experience the benefit of mindfulness meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques.

It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for anxiety. Each patient is unique and requires an individualized treatment plan. Our psychiatrists have the training, experience, and desire to work closely with their patients to identify the type of anxiety and the best treatment plan for their specific needs.

Our team, of some of the best psychiatrists in California, know that treating anxiety requires a multi-faceted approach that includes therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. By working closely with you psychiatrist, we can help you learn effective coping strategies to manage you anxiety symptoms and improve you quality of life. If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, we encourage you to seek help from a mental health professional. Remember, anxiety is treatable, and there is hope for a better tomorrow.

If you live in the state of California and are looking for help, we would be happy to speak with you. If you are interested in becoming a new patient, please schedule a time to speak with our practice manager (using the "book online" button above) or call our office today.