THERAPY FOR ANXIETY
The harmful impacts of anxiety
Anxiety can erode your ability to trust yourself and those around you.
Anxiety erases the fun of a night out with friends, family vacations, and activities that once brought you joy.
Anxiety can make it feel impossible to take action on projects you can't perfect.
Anxiety and panic episodes are unbearable and lead to isolation from loved ones.
These statements describe the impact that anxiety can have, but with treatment, these statements can become a thing of your past.
What is anxiety, anyway?
Anxiety is actually a natural emotion and it’s uncomfortable for a reason. It's a warning to remain alert so that we can avoid danger. It’s how our ancestors survived. But in today’s fast-paced world, the “alarm bell” of anxiety can be much greater than the actual danger that we face. We can feel anxious even when things are technically safe and going well - and it can be exhausting.
Anxiety is not meant to be experienced every day. Anxiety and panic symptoms can lead to chronic health problems like high blood pressure, stomach ulcers and GI distress, or migraines. Experiencing frequent anxiety might limit potential success at work, cause friction in your relationships, or cause you to withdraw from the world in order to avoid anything that might trigger anxiety or panic. If this way of living life has become exhausting, frustrating, and isolating, there are treatment options that our experienced therapists can explore with you.
Unhelpful coping strategies for anxiety (sound familiar?)
Avoidance, addiction, and alternative thinking are coping strategies that you may have tried to combat anxiety. The issue with these coping strategies is that technically, they work. Your mind and body will communicate that these are seemingly effective and a cycle of unhelpful coping begins.
Avoidance of people, places, activities, or tasks that cause anxiety will create a world that is small and tightly controlled.
Addictions are considered a numbing strategy due to their effect on your ability to remain present-minded.
Alternative thinking is our mind's attempt to change the thoughts we have about ourselves to fit the anxiety narrative rather than challenge them. This can lead to distorted thoughts and unhealthy beliefs about who we are.
What does therapy for anxiety look like?
The first line of treatment for anxiety disorders is individual therapy with a licensed mental health professional. Based on your symptoms and diagnosis, your Knownfully therapist will review options for care that are effective at reducing the frequency, intensity, and duration of anxiety symptoms. We take a holistic approach to treating anxiety, emphasizing the mind-body connection and supporting you with evidence-based tools that will help you lean into feelings of calm and safety.
Avoidance works to relieve anxiety in the short-term, but the negative impact will be felt long-term. If you don't want to miss out on your life any longer contact us today for a free consultation. We can’t wait to connect with you.
Ready to take the next step toward freedom from anxiety?
Avoidance works to relieve anxiety in the short-term, but the negative impact will be felt long-term. If you don't want to miss out on your life any longer contact us today for a free consultation. We can’t wait to connect with you.