Anxiety & Panic

Anxiety is by far the most common issue facing individuals today—and our primary area of expertise. The National Institute of Health estimates that nearly 20% of the population has suffered from an anxiety disorder at least once in the past year. And 30% at some point in their lives.

Anxiety is a sprawling issue, manifesting in a variety of ways. The following are some of the most common anxiety disorders we see:

  • Generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD, is the pervasive, low-level drone of anxiety we experience on an everyday basis. It may be triggered by specific situations or stressors, or exist on it’s own as a constant source of worry and discomfort.

  • Panic disorder is characterized by one or many recurring panic attacks. Panic attacks, when first experienced, can be a terrifying ordeal emulating a ‘heart attack’ and prompting an Emergency Room visit. If left untreated, they can become debilitating, not just because of the attacks themselves but the fear of constant, uncontrolled assaults on the system.

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) results in recurring, seemingly uncontrollable behavioral impulses. These behaviors can seem totally arbitrary (i.e. rituals around light switches); may involve particular triggers, such as safety or cleanliness; or be fueled by “obsessive bad thoughts,” like a fear of harming others. OCD can range from merely uncomfortable to all-consuming, depending on whether it is properly treated.

  • Social Anxiety Disorder is marked by recurring, often significant discomfort in social settings, such as parties, dates, or professional gatherings. Not surprisingly, social anxiety is an insidious pathology that can prevent individuals from living full and connected lives.

  • Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety encompasses episodes or extended periods of intense worry related to environmental factors. This type of anxiety may stem from specific stimuli, like a recent life change (i.e. break-up) or future obligation (i.e. presentation). Or it may emerge over time as the result persistent stressors, like work or academic obligations.

Anxiety can be treated using a range of modalities depending on both the client’s preference and the type of anxiety in question.

For example, Generalized Anxiety Disorder may be addressed through several, very different approaches depending on the client’s style. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for GAD involves challenging our fears using rational thought and evidence. Meanwhile, mindfulness meditation and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) teach the client to accept our fears (rather than fight them). Here, a client may explore each of these unique solutions to find what works best for them.

Conversely, other forms of anxiety may require explicit treatment guided by the therapist. In the case Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, discussed above, clients often benefit from exposure therapy which teaches them to tolerate the discomfort of obsessive thoughts, without fueling them with compulsive behaviors.

To learn more about the anxiety you may be experiencing and how we can help, call or message us to arrange a consult or schedule an intake assessment.