Anxiety attacks can feel overwhelming. They might cause a pounding heart, trouble breathing, or dizziness. It is normal to feel anxious sometimes. However, frequent attacks that affect your daily life could mean something more serious. Knowing when to get professional support is an important step toward feeling better.
This article will help you identify the signs that it might be time to seek treatment for anxiety attacks. It will also offer tips on finding the right mental health professional for help.
Anxiety that Disrupts Daily Life
If your anxiety prevents you from engaging in normal daily activities, it might be time to seek help. Anxiety should not keep you from attending work, spending time with loved ones, or enjoying hobbies. When your fears and worries disrupt your ability to function, consulting a provider can be beneficial.
For example, do you avoid gatherings, work meetings, or even grocery shopping due to anxiety? This is a sign that professional intervention may be needed.
Physical Symptoms That Mimic Other Conditions
Anxiety attacks can often be mistaken for other health conditions. This is because of overlapping physical symptoms. For instance, many who experience anxiety attacks report chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a rapid heartbeat. These symptoms can mimic a heart attack and are understandably alarming.
A provider can help you identify whether these symptoms are tied to anxiety. Then, they can provide appropriate treatment or coping strategies.
Increased Frequency of Attacks
Are your anxiety attacks happening more often than they used to? Occasional anxiety is normal. However, frequent or recurring anxiety attacks may indicate an anxiety disorder. A provider can assess your situation and determine whether you should explore treatment options.
You Feel Paralyzed by Fear and Worry
Does fear and worry dominate your thoughts and emotions, leaving you feeling stuck or helpless? This is another signal it might be time to see a provider for treatment for anxiety attacks. Feeling unable to escape that mental loop of anxiety can take a toll on your mental and physical health.
Trouble with Sleep and General Health
A lack of quality sleep is often linked to anxiety. Do you find yourself up at night, lying in bed with racing thoughts, or waking up feeling unrested? Anxiety could be the underlying culprit. Sleep concerns left untreated can worsen anxiety symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. A provider can help you address this and get to the root of the issue.
Additionally, anxiety can lead to other physical health problems due to prolonged stress. This may include headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or weakened immunity. Seeking treatment for anxiety early can prevent these secondary issues.
Ineffectiveness of Self-Help Methods
Have you tried mindfulness, relaxation exercises, or journaling but are not seeing improvements? If this is the case, it may be time to involve a professional. Self-help strategies can be helpful. However, they are not a substitute for evidence-based treatments like therapy or medication.
You Experience Panic Attacks
Panic attacks are episodes of intense fear that often happen suddenly. They can cause overwhelming physical and emotional distress. Are you experiencing frequent panic attacks, especially when no clear trigger is present? A provider can help diagnose the issue and create a treatment plan tailored to you.
How to Find the Best Mental Health Provider for Anxiety Treatment
Here is how to start your search for the best treatment for anxiety attacks:
Determine Your Goals for Treatment
Before beginning your search, outline what you hope to accomplish. Do you want to learn better coping skills? Are you seeking a diagnosis?
Understanding your needs will help you narrow down your options. This will help you find a provider who specializes in the treatment for anxiety attacks you require.
Look for Experience in Anxiety Treatment
When researching providers, prioritize professionals who have experience treating anxiety disorders. Check their qualifications, certifications, and any specializations they may have. A provider with expertise in treating anxiety will be better equipped to understand your unique needs.
Explore Different Types of Therapy
There are several types of therapy that can be effective in treating anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most commonly recommended approaches. CBT helps people identify and challenge negative thought patterns. It also helps them develop healthier responses to triggers.
Do you prefer other types of therapy, such as exposure therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy? If so, make sure the provider you choose offers these services.
Ask for Recommendations
Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or colleagues who may have experience with anxiety treatment. Personal recommendations can lead you to reputable providers who have already helped others.
Verify Insurance Compatibility
If you plan to use insurance to cover your treatment, confirm that the provider accepts your insurance plan. This step will help you avoid unexpected costs and make the process more seamless.
Schedule a Consultation
Many providers offer first meetings to see if their services are right for you. During this time, you can ask about how they treat anxiety, their experience with it, and what their sessions are like.
This is also a chance to see if their way of speaking and overall personality match what you need.
Treatment for Anxiety Attacks in Monroe County, PA
Living with anxiety attacks can be overwhelming, but help is available. Knowing when to see a provider marks the beginning of a positive change. Anxiety does not have to control your life.
Are you ready to take the first step toward treatment for anxiety attacks? Trust New Beginnings’ very own Dr. Akia Blandon, DNP, APRN, AGPCNP-C. As the best telehealth psychiatrist, Dr. Blandon brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you find relief from your anxiety attacks. Call the best family practice near you at (484) 640-5400 or use our secure online appointment request form. You do not have to face this alone.
We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9536-anxiety-disorders
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350967
