Anxiety

If you worry constantly in everyday situations, an anxiety disorder may be the reason. Fortunately, help is available at Brandy Wadsworth Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PLLC in Hudson Falls, New York. Board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Brandy Wadsworth, DNP, PMHNP-BC, offers treatments that can help improve your mental health and restore your quality of life. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking one online today. 

What are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are conditions affecting your mental health. Everyone feels anxious now and then, but anxiety disorders negatively interfere with your quality of life when left untreated. They’re characterized by persistent or intense worry and fear during everyday situations. 

Which symptoms can anxiety cause?

Anxiety disorders can lead to:

• Intense fear or worry
• Panic attacks
• Racing heartbeat
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Nervousness
• Restlessness
• Feeling tense
• Sense of panic, danger, or doom
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Rapid breathing
• Trouble concentrating
• Upset stomach
• Difficulty sleeping
• Avoiding things that trigger anxiety symptoms

During a panic attack, you may feel like you’re having a heart attack.

What are the different types of anxiety disorders?

There are many types of anxiety disorders.

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Anxiety disorder due to a medical problem
• Agoraphobia
• Panic disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Separation anxiety disorder
• Selective mutism
• Substance-induced anxiety disorder
• Phobias

What are the risk factors for anxiety disorders?

The causes of anxiety aren't fully clear, but genetics and your environment may play roles in developing an anxiety disorder. It may stem from a chronic disease, stress, trauma, or a family history of anxiety disorders. Other risk factors include having other mental health disorders like depression, possessing certain personality traits, and drug or alcohol use.

How is an anxiety disorder diagnosed?

Brandy completes an initial psychiatric evaluation using DSM-5 criteria to determine if you have an anxiety disorder or another mental health condition. She discusses your lifestyle, moods, emotions, thoughts, behaviors, medical history, and medications.

How is anxiety treated?

If Brandy determines that you have an anxiety disorder, she collaborates with you to determine a treatment plan that aligns with your needs and goals. Your treatment plan may include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Medication management
• Counseling

If you would like help managing your anxiety, call Brandy Wadsworth Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PLLC, or request an appointment online today.