Our Services / Anxiety

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural response to a stressful situation. In small doses, anxiety is a helpful emotion that can motivate you to prepare for a big test or job interview. However, these feelings of fear and worry are usually temporary.

When anxiety doesn’t go away or worsens over time, it can interfere with work, school, and personal relationships. If you experience anxiety that’s difficult to control, lasts a long time, and is out of proportion to the actual danger, you may have an anxiety disorder.

What are the types of anxiety disorders?

There are many types of anxiety disorders, including:

Panic disorder

Panic disorder involves recurrent panic attacks, which are periods of intense fear that come on suddenly and peak within minutes. A panic attack can happen unexpectedly, or it can be a response to a certain trigger, such as a feared situation.

Specific phobias

Phobias are extreme fears of, or aversions to, specific situations or objects. There are many types of phobias and phobia-related disorders. Some of the most common examples include fears of flying, heights, and blood.

Social anxiety disorder

Previously known as social phobia, this disorder involves an intense fear or avoidance of social or performance situations. Worries about being judged or embarrassed can cause people with social anxiety disorder to isolate themselves.

Generalized anxiety disorder

Generalized anxiety disorder causes excessive worry about everyday things like work, personal health, and social interactions.

What are the signs and symptoms of anxiety?

Anxiety symptoms vary based on the type and severity of the disorder, but may include:

• Increased heart rate
• Restlessness
• Rapid breathing
• Trouble sleeping
• Feeling exhausted
• Sweating
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded

You may also have difficulty concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present worry. If you experience these symptoms, the team at High Desert Psychological Services can help.

How is anxiety treated?

First, your compassionate High Desert Psychological Services counselor spends time discussing your particular worries and anxiety symptoms. Then, they work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan based on your unique mental health goals.

Anxiety treatment is highly personalized, but may include medication, talk therapy, or a combination of both. Your therapist may recommend lifestyle changes to reduce anxiety, such as adjusting your nutrition, sleep habits, physical activity, and stress management.

For help managing anxiety, call High Desert Psychological Services or request an appointment online today.