Anxiety Disorder Treatment for Children, Adolescents and Adults
Anxiety is very common in the United States. Treating patients with anxiety is a significant part of my practice. There are many different forms of anxiety that we treat. These include social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), obsessive compulsive disorder, and panic disorder.
One of the most common is Social Phobia. With social phobia there is a strong fear of being judged by others and of being embarrassed. This fear can be so strong that it gets in the way of doing everyday things such as working, going to school or playing sports. Another common anxiety disorder is called Generalized Anxiety Disorder or GAD. Although everyone has worries, people who suffer with GAD are extremely worried about their health, money and many other things, even when there is little or no reason to worry about them. In fact, they are very anxious about just getting through the day.
One of the most well-known varieties of Anxiety Disorder is called Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. People with this condition will find themselves with upsetting compulsive thoughts and repetitive rituals to ease their anxiety. These can be very time consuming and leaving little time for normal day-to-day activities. Finally, there is panic disorder. People with panic disorder have sudden and repeated attacks of fear that last for several minutes or even longer. These episodes are called panic attacks. Panic attacks typically include a fear of disaster or of losing control even when there is no real danger.
The exact causes of anxiety disorders are still unknown. Sometimes these disorders run in families, and sometimes not. Researchers have begun to unwind the mysteries involved with why some people are prone to anxiety conditions, while others are not. While the exact causes are still being determined, the good news is that there are some very effective treatments available.
If you or your loved one is suffering from anxiety, please contact me to set an appointment.