Anxiety Disorder Treatment by Vantage Point

Anxiety, by nature, is a healthy mental response and not innately detrimental. It is a behavior every individual experiences throughout their lifetime. As a primal instinct, it serves as a reminder of our responsibilities, promoting survival and success.

However, it becomes a challenge when it manifests without a clear trigger, leading to behaviors that obstruct the achievement of your goals. Classic examples include self-sabotage and procrastination. In the United States alone, over 18% of the population grapples with some form of anxiety disorder.

What is an Anxiety Disorder?

Consider anxiety as a sophisticated warning mechanism for the brain’s emotional receptors, comparable to the role pain plays in measuring our physical endurance. While pain typically arises from injury or as a response to harmful stimuli, anxiety often presents itself in emotionally and mentally stressful situations we find difficult to manage. When anxiety sets in, it signifies we’re pushing our boundaries. At such moments, it’s more beneficial to pause, allowing things to simmer down, instead of persisting.

Stress, akin to a mental burn, stems from enduring a stressful situation. It represents our capacity to handle pressure. In this context, there is no inherent issue with stress or anxiety. We at Vantage Point assure you that experiencing anxiety and panic at certain points in life is common.

However, there’s a difference between appropriate mental responses to specific circumstances and irrational, constant anxiety. When the protective aspects of anxiety – self-preservation – are drowned out by an overwhelming array of negative side effects, such as self-sabotage, we’re dealing with an anxiety disorder. This condition affects 18 percent of the US population, as per the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

There is a wide array of symptoms, distinct forms, and ultimately, unique treatment approaches that are tailored according to individual needs and circumstances.

What Causes Anxiety Disorders?

The precise causes of anxiety disorders remain uncertain. However, experts agree that they likely result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.

• Genetics Individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders are more prone to develop one themselves.
• Changes in Brain Chemistry An imbalance of chemicals in the brain, particularly Serotonin and Dopamine, can negatively impact the brain and is identified as one of the primary causes of anxiety disorders.
• Environmental Factors Stress, abuse, neglect, bullying, the death of a loved one, or other traumatic events can also significantly contribute to the development of an anxiety disorder.
• Substance Use Regular consumption of alcohol or drugs can increase the risk of developing an anxiety disorder.

Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders:

The symptoms of an anxiety disorder can differ depending on the specific type of anxiety disorder an individual is dealing with. However, there are certain common signs to identify if one might be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Physical Symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder:

• Cold, sweaty hands
• Dry mouth
• Palpitating heartbeat
• Nausea
• Numbness in hands and feet
• Tension in hand and foot muscles
• Difficulty breathing

Mental Symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder:

• Frequent panic
• Pervasive fear and uneasiness
• Flashbacks of traumatic past experiences
• Uncontrolled cycle of thoughts and emotions

Behavioral Symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder:

• Difficulty staying calm
• Formation of rituals around daily activities, such as repeatedly washing hands
• Trouble sleeping

The Most Common Types of Anxiety Disorders:

Anxiety often overlaps with several other mental conditions. Here are the common types of anxiety disorders:

• Panic Disorder: Panic Disorder is marked by recurring and unexpected panic attacks characterized by a sudden onset of intense fear and discomfort that peaks within minutes.
• Phobia: A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder that results in excessive fear of a specific activity, object, or situation.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Individuals suffering from Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) fear being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social situations.
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder: GAD is characterized by uncontrollable worry about everyday events and tasks, including concerns about finances, health, work, relationships, etc.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: OCD is identified by persistent, irrational thoughts that compel the individual to perform repetitive actions, such as excessive handwashing or cleaning.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: PTSD can occur after experiencing a traumatic event, ranging from violent incidents, sexual misconduct, accidents, or the death of a loved one.

Treatment of Anxiety Disorders:

The fear of judgment, humiliation, and vulnerability can be overwhelming. Even when you acknowledge you have a problem and are hypersensitive to social awkwardness, seeking help can feel like an insurmountable challenge.

At Vantage Point, we make it easier by providing a judgment-free treatment environment. We discuss everything with you to ensure you understand the upcoming process. The right treatment can help you manage your symptoms and lead a life that is less chaotic and more manageable.

Psychotherapy:

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is an effective and proven treatment for anxiety disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brainspotting, Neuroplasticity Therapy, Brain Mapping, Group Therapy, Medication, Stress Management, Hypnotherapy, Yoga, and Meditation are some methods we use at Vantage Point. These strategies not only help soothe your troubled mind but also teach you how to stay calm in challenging situations.

Psychotherapy can be pursued independently or in conjunction with medication for enhanced results.

Medications:

Medications do not cure anxiety disorders, but they can improve symptoms and enhance functionality.

• Anti-anxiety medications like Benzodiazepines alleviate anxiety, panic, and worry. They are effective for short-term use, as the human body gradually develops resistance towards them.
• Antidepressants adjust your brain chemistry to improve mood and manage stress. They are slower acting and may take some time to show results.
• Beta-blockers, typically used for high blood pressure treatment, can also effectively manage some physical symptoms of anxiety disorders, such as rapid heartbeat, shaking, and trembling.

Vantage Point’s Perspective on Anxiety Disorders

Life is filled with moments that test us, moments that leave us feeling frightened and emotionally altered. Over time, these feelings should fade. However, if they persist, it’s important to remember that it’s not your fault, nor does it make you flawed or lesser. You have your unique characteristics and strengths, and if you find yourself in a persistent state of dread, professional help is necessary. The good news is: you are not alone and this is not permanent. With professional assistance, you’ll regain your stride.

In most cases, we can aid you in fully recovering from your anxiety issues. You’ll remain true to yourself, but you’ll also acquire the skills to cope with your emotions and handle the stress that was previously overwhelming. Without help, an anxiety disorder could exacerbate over time, potentially leading to more serious conditions such as depression.

Vantage Point Recovery: Your Mental Well-being is Our Primary Concern

Rather than explaining the multitude of complex terms, we prefer to focus on a thorough analysis of your condition and needs by our professional staff. Perhaps you respond extremely well to herbal medication and yoga. Alternatively, you may only respond to traditional anti-anxiety medication, or maybe medication doesn’t work at all for you. In that case, the best approach could be to slowly rewire your thought processes with therapy, support, neurofeedback, and cognitive exercises.

We guarantee to discover the treatment method that works best for you, and we will work alongside you to provide an in-depth explanation of how your treatment will operate. You are not a problem to be solved, but a person experiencing a complex system of anxiety symptoms, necessitating a uniquely tailored treatment plan. Therefore, at Vantage Point, there are no magical pills or 12-step programs.

Vantage Point differs from typical treatment centers. We offer anxiety disorder treatment plans that are:

• Customized specifically for you, your condition, your challenges, and your circumstances.
• Built around your daily needs and the severity of your illness, with either inpatient or outpatient recommendations.

We regard our ability to work with you as our greatest strength. Our belief in our methods inspires us to deliver quality care and attention to everyone who seeks our help. We’ve assisted countless individuals in regaining control over their lives at Vantage Point.

Entrust the Experts: Recovery at Vantage Point Recovery

We specialize in intensive outpatient care at Vantage Point.

Our approach is unique: we empower you to help yourself.

Our outpatient programs require you to devote a significant portion of your daily life to improving until you feel better. We will also collaborate with any willing family and friends to ensure that your anxiety disorder treatment is successful, and any symptoms that reappear are addressed swiftly.

Anxiety disorders are not cured overnight. They are long-term conditions requiring adequate, sustained treatment. These disorders are highly treatable, and Vantage Point is dedicated to helping you navigate your treatment journey.