We’ve all been nervous, worried, had stage fright, or been generally afraid. It’s a natural response to many stimuli that has been a part of human nature for millions of years. Our body experiences fear and anxiety to encourage us to respond and protect ourselves from potential dangers. What happens if these stress or fear-based reactions are happening all the time even without immediate cause? When this is the case, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. There are many different forms of anxiety disorders from separation anxiety to phobias. Anxiety disorder is a general phrase used to describe a group of mental, emotional, and behavioral conditions that can inhibit your ability to perform routine daily tasks. Everyone is different, and their assessment and treatments for anxiety disorders will be too. We are happy to offer both diagnosis and counseling services for people struggling with anxiety disorders.
Do I Have an Anxiety Disorder?
There are four main types of anxiety disorder – panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, specific phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder. Each form of this condition has its own unique symptoms and warning signs, but some of the symptoms that are shared across all types of anxiety disorders include:
- Frequent feeling of panic or unease without a specific cause
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep and nightmares
- Inability to relax or sit still
- Extremities that feel numb, cold, or tingly
- Shortness of breath, gasping, or difficulty breathing
- Increased heart rate or heart palpitations
- “Cotton” mouth dryness or reduced saliva production
- Upset stomach, cramps, or nausea
- Muscle tension, aches, and pains
- Chronic headaches or migraines
- Dizziness or difficulty focusing your eyes
How are Anxiety Disorders Diagnosed?
Many people with anxiety disorders seek treatment from a medical professional due to the numerous, physical symptoms associated with these disorders. If no medical cause is found, the physician may then refer their patients to a trusted psychologist for evaluation and assessment. If you seek treatment for anxiety disorder from our team before you visit a medical professional, we may want to work with your general healthcare provider to complete tests to eliminate any potential medical conditions that could be contributing to your anxiety disorder. If all potential medical conditions are ruled out, one of our psychologists will sit down with you to review your healthy and psychological history, discuss the symptoms you’re experiencing, and help you to determine whether or not you should continue treatment for anxiety disorder.
Who Offers Assessment & Counseling for Anxiety Disorders?
Many of our skilled practitioners are familiar with anxiety disorders, and they’re happy to offer diagnosis and counseling services to help those who are suffering with anxiety disorders.
What Happens During Counseling for Anxiety Disorders?
Counseling for anxiety disorders may include cognitive behavior therapy, stress reduction methods, and other techniques. Every person is different, and our skilled clinicians will work with you to develop a plan to help you address anxiety disorders. Our goal is to help those struggling with anxiety disorders to lead healthy lives filled with joy and a full range of emotions without experiencing chronic feelings of anxiety.
How do I Get Started?
When you’re ready to start making changes to your daily life, the Grace Psychological Services team is here to help. We offer assessment and counseling services for kids, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety disorders in The Woodlands, Spring, the Greater Houston area, Harris County, throughout the state, and beyond. Give our office a call to find out more or schedule an appointment with one of our skilled clinicians.