CLAYTON FAMILY THERAPY
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a mental and physical reaction to perceived threats. In small doses, anxiety is helpful. It protects us from danger, and focuses our attention on problems. But when anxiety is too severe, or occurs too frequently, it can become debilitating.
Symptoms of Anxiety
• uncontrollable worry • excessive nervousness • sleep problems • muscle tension • poor concentration • increased heart rate • upset stomach • avoidance of fear
Types of Anxiety
Generalized Anxiety: An excessive amount of anxiety or worry in several areas of life, such as job responsibilities, health, finances, or minor concerns (e.g. completing housework).
Phobias: A very intense fear of a specific situation or object, which is out of proportion to its actual threat. For example, a fear of giving speeches, or of spiders, could be considered a phobia.
Panic: An extreme anxious response where a person experiences a panic attack. During a panic attack, the individual experiences numerous physical symptoms, and is overwhelmed by a feeling of dread.
Phobias: A very intense fear of a specific situation or object, which is out of proportion to its actual threat. For example, a fear of giving speeches, or of spiders, could be considered a phobia.
Panic: An extreme anxious response where a person experiences a panic attack. During a panic attack, the individual experiences numerous physical symptoms, and is overwhelmed by a feeling of dread.
Ways to treat Anxiety
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) CBT is a very effective treatment for anxiety. During CBT, the unhealthy thinking patterns that create to anxiety are identified, and challenged. Oftentimes, CBT will also include components of exposure therapy and relaxation skills.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Skills Various techniques—such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness—provide immediate relief from the symptoms of anxiety. With practice, relaxation skills will become a powerful way to manage anxiety in the moment.
Exposure Therapy During exposure therapy, the therapist and their client create a plan to gradually face anxiety producing situations, thus breaking the cycle of avoidance. With enough exposure, the anxiety loses its power, and the symptoms diminish.
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