Anxiety is the body’s natural response to stress, and in normal doses, can be beneficial to our overall well-being. When anxiety is chronic or persistent, though, it is harmful to our mental and physical health. Every year, tens of millions of Americans suffer from some form of anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and various phobias. If you or someone you love experiences severe anxiety lasting for six months or longer that interferes with daily life, an anxiety treatment program at Harmony Hills can help. Contact us at 855.494.0357.
Signs You May Need Anxiety Treatment
Anxiety disorders are among the most treatable of mental health disorders. Residential treatment or outpatient treatment for anxiety offers a safe, supportive environment for those whose anxiety has become overwhelming or debilitating. At Harmony Hills, a specialized anxiety treatment program provides you or your loved one with the skills and tools to overcome an anxiety disorder.
The way anxiety manifests itself is different for everyone, but some symptoms are common across all types of anxiety disorders, including:
- Feeling “on edge,” irritable, or restless
- Trouble concentrating
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Feeling fatigued most of the time
- Excessive worrying or a persistent sense of doom and danger
- Obsessively avoiding particular objects or places
- Headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and muscle tension
Experiencing any of the above symptoms on most days, for six months or longer, is likely an anxiety disorder. You can call Harmony Hills for help today at 855.494.0357.
Anxiety disorders respond well to a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and cognitive-behavioral therapies. With a proper diagnosis and comprehensive, compassionate treatment, anxiety symptoms can be alleviated, leading to a better quality of life.
Learning How to Manage Anxiety
The exact causes of anxiety disorders are not fully understood. However, inherited traits, trauma, extreme stress, physical health issues, and substance use disorders are all factors that contribute. How your anxiety disorder is best treated will be determined by the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your daily functioning. The symptoms of anxiety can range from mild to severe. No matter the extent of your symptoms, there are several ways you can help manage your anxiety, such as:
- Learn to control your breathing, which will lower your heart rate
- Write down your thoughts
- Exercise
- Eat a healthy diet and get enough sleep
- Practice yoga and meditation
- Cut back on or avoid drugs, alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine
- Recognize your triggers
While it may seem counterintuitive, it can also help schedule a specific time each day to think about your worries and fears. Giving yourself the time to focus on what is bothering you can help change your perspective and see things more rationally.
When to Seek Treatment for an Anxiety Disorder
Treatment is often indicated for moderate to severe anxiety. If anxiety disrupts your daily functioning, it is time to seek help from an anxiety treatment program. Treatment for anxiety disorders includes medication and psychotherapy. Some of the therapies available for anxiety treatment at Harmony Hills include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Family counseling
- Group therapy
Anxiety does not usually go away altogether, but it can be effectively treated. It is possible to manage your symptoms so that they no longer negatively impact your daily functioning. At Harmony Hills, you will learn to identify the underlying causes of your anxiety and the coping skills needed to calm your anxiety before it takes control.
Learn to Manage Your Anxiety at Harmony Hills
Anxiety and substance use disorders are often intermingled. At Harmony Hills, we provide dual diagnosis treatment to address anxiety and co-occurring substance abuse or addiction. While it is not possible to prevent an anxiety disorder, it is possible to treat symptoms and learn how to manage your anxiety. To learn how an anxiety treatment program can help you or your loved one, contact Harmony Hills by calling 855.494.0357.
