Anxiety Disorder Therapy in Texas
Are you living with an anxiety disorder? Our experienced anxiety counselors in Texas are here to help! Keep reading to learn more about Symmetry Counseling’s anxiety disorder counseling services and contact us to book your appointment today.
Generalized Anxiety
Disorder Counseling in Texas
People who suffer from Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) experience persistent, irrational fear and worry about everyday things. They tend to overthink and expect the worst outcomes, regardless of the situation. The anxieties they experience usually revolve around finances, health, family, work, or other life matters. GAD is diagnosed if a person has been excessively worried about life issues for a period of six months or more.
GAD is a Common Disorder in the United States
GAD is a common disorder in the United States, affecting 6.8 million adults, or 3.1% of the population, annually. Women are more likely to be diagnosed with the disorder than men. GAD symptoms can appear at any age, but the highest risk of developing the condition is usually between childhood and middle age. Although the underlying cause of GAD is unknown, research suggests that it is likely caused by a combination of biological, familial, and environmental factors, particularly stressful ones.
The Physical Symptoms of GAD:
- Muscle tension
- Fatigue
- Restlessness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability
- Edginess
- Gastrointestinal discomfort and diarrhea
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for GAD, helping people to recognize, comprehend, and modify their incorrect thinking and behavior patterns. This gives people with the disorder the ability to learn how to manage their anxieties. Medication may be prescribed to some individuals with GAD, while relaxation methods, meditation, yoga, exercise, and other alternative treatments may be included in the treatment plan. It is also important to remember that GAD rarely occurs on its own, and other anxiety disorders, depression, and substance abuse may accompany it. Therefore, it is essential to treat any co-occurring conditions with the appropriate therapies.
Common Co-Occurring
Conditions With GAD:
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Those who have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are plagued by recurring, unwanted thoughts that they cannot seem to shake off (obsessions). Due to this, they often feel the need to carry out repetitive activities and behaviors (compulsions) as a way to alleviate their anxiety. Even though they are aware that these obsessions and compulsions are irrational, they feel powerless to stop them.
OCD is a serious, yet treatable anxiety disorder that often occurs with depression and other anxiety disorders. If not treated properly, it may become disabling. Most people who seek treatment experience significant improvement and enjoy an improved quality of life. It is important to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine the best option.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often a co-occurring condition with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). This is because PTSD can be caused by a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, an accident, a violent act, or a war. This trauma can lead to a sense of fear and vulnerability, which can manifest as symptoms of GAD. Furthermore, people with PTSD can experience flashbacks and intrusive memories of their traumatic event, which can lead to further anxiety and worry, resulting in GAD. Therefore, it is important for people who suffer from both disorders to receive treatment for both conditions.
Get Help With GAD Today in Texas
Everyone has experienced stress and anxiety at some point in their lives. The distinction between the two lies in that stress is a response to a perceived danger in a situation, and anxiety is the reaction to that stress. Most people report that stress has a significant impact on their daily lives, regardless of the circumstances. If left unchecked, chronic stress can have adverse effects on one's health, such as headaches, high blood pressure, chest pain, heart palpitations, skin rashes, and difficulty sleeping. Fortunately, it is possible to learn methods to reduce the impact of stress and manage the associated symptoms.
Are you ready to get started on your anxiety disorder counseling? Contact Symmetry Counseling in Texas to get more information and book your appointment today.