Anxiety is our body's natural response to a sense of danger. But when this response appears frequently and intensely without a real threat and makes daily life harder, we speak of an anxiety disorder. The good news: anxiety disorders are among the most treatable conditions in psychiatry.
Common symptoms
Anxiety can show up with both physical and mental symptoms:
- Constant worry and restlessness
- Racing heart, shortness of breath
- Muscle tension, trembling
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Trouble concentrating
- Avoidance behaviors
What is a panic attack?
A panic attack is a sudden wave of intense fear. It can present as a racing heart, a choking sensation, dizziness and the thought "I'm losing control" or "I'm dying." Many people mistake their first attack for a heart attack and rush to the ER. Although extremely uncomfortable, panic attacks cause no physical harm; with the right approach, they can be brought under control.
Note: Social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and specific phobias may look different but share common, effective treatment methods. Accurate diagnosis is the first step of treatment.
My treatment approach
My primary method for anxiety is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps you notice the thought patterns that feed anxiety and replace them with more realistic, functional ones. Gradual exposure to avoided situations, breathing and relaxation techniques, and mindfulness practices are all part of the process.
When needed, medication support is planned together with you and at the lowest effective dose. My goal is not only to reduce symptoms but to permanently strengthen your ability to cope with anxiety.
Frequently asked questions
Are panic attacks dangerous?
Panic attacks are extremely uncomfortable but not physically harmful. They can feel like a heart attack but are not life-threatening. With proper treatment, attacks decrease significantly.
How long does treatment take?
Duration varies by person and severity. With cognitive behavioral therapy, many patients experience significant improvement within a few months.
Is treatment possible without medication?
Many anxiety conditions can be treated with psychotherapy alone. When needed, medication is planned at the lowest effective dose.