Anxiety Treatment
Anxiety can profoundly affect every aspect of a person’s life. From disrupting daily routines and straining personal relationships to hindering career growth and diminishing overall well-being, anxiety can take many forms—whether it’s a constant sense of unease or intense, sudden episodes. Despite its difficulties, anxiety is a highly treatable condition.
At Evergreen Behavioral Health, we’re committed to ensuring no one has to navigate it alone. Our goal is to deliver compassionate, comprehensive care that fosters real, lasting relief and helps individuals regain control and confidence in their lives.
Understanding Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders present in various forms, each with its own distinct symptoms, triggers, and effects on daily life. Understanding the specific type of anxiety an individual is experiencing is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan. Below are some of the most common types:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Marked by persistent, excessive worry that is difficult to manage, often accompanied by symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, irritability, and muscle tension.
- Panic Disorder: Characterized by sudden, recurrent panic attacks—intense episodes of fear that may include symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, and a racing heart.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: Involves an intense fear of being judged or embarrassed in social or performance settings, leading to avoidance of interactions and significant emotional distress.
- Specific Phobias: Involve overwhelming fear triggered by specific objects or situations—such as heights, flying, or animals—that is out of proportion to the actual level of danger.
Each of these disorders calls for a tailored treatment approach, underscoring the importance of individualized, compassionate care to help individuals manage their symptoms and regain control of their lives.
Effects of Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety is a prevalent mental health condition that affects every aspect of a person’s life—emotionally, physically, and socially. While occasional anxiety is a natural response to stress, persistent and overwhelming anxiety can become debilitating, interfering with daily routines, personal relationships, and overall quality of life. It’s more than just feeling nervous; anxiety can manifest through both emotional distress and physical symptoms, highlighting its seriousness as a mental health issue.
Physical Effects of Anxiety
Anxiety isn’t limited to the mind—it often shows up in the body as well. When anxiety takes hold, it activates the body’s stress response, commonly known as the “fight-or-flight” mechanism. This reaction can cause a variety of physical symptoms including a racing heart, rapid breathing, muscle tightness, sweating, and digestive discomfort. If anxiety becomes chronic, these symptoms may persist and lead to long-term health issues such as headaches, insomnia, and gastrointestinal problems.
Over time, chronic stress places significant strain on the body. Elevated cortisol levels—linked to prolonged anxiety—can compromise the immune system, contribute to inflammation, and increase the risk of conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic pain, and autoimmune disorders. Additionally, individuals may develop unhealthy coping mechanisms such as overeating, excessive caffeine intake, or substance use, which further worsen physical symptoms. Early intervention, including healthy habits, therapy, and medical care, is crucial for minimizing these risks.
Mental and Emotional Impact of Anxiety
Anxiety exerts a powerful influence on emotional well-being and mental clarity. It often leads to relentless worry, self-doubt, and a persistent feeling of unease. Racing thoughts and intrusive fears can impair focus, cloud decision-making, and create a constant sense of pressure or dread. When anxiety goes unmanaged, it can evolve into depression, leaving individuals feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained.
Emotionally, anxiety may cause heightened irritability, rapid mood swings, and hypersensitivity to stress or criticism. Fear of failure, judgment, or rejection can damage self-esteem and contribute to avoidance behaviors or even panic attacks—intense, sudden episodes of fear accompanied by physical symptoms like chest tightness or breathlessness. These emotional struggles often require therapeutic support to help individuals regain control and build emotional resilience.
How Anxiety Affects Social Life
Anxiety can significantly disrupt social interactions and relationships. Many people begin to withdraw from social settings, avoiding conversations, events, or even casual encounters due to fear of embarrassment, rejection, or criticism. For those with social anxiety disorder, everyday tasks like speaking in public or making eye contact can feel overwhelming. This retreat from social life often leads to loneliness, reduced self-confidence, and increased risk of depression.
In personal relationships, anxiety can cause misunderstandings, emotional distance, or overdependence. Some individuals may constantly seek reassurance, while others may become irritable or withdrawn—both of which can strain romantic, familial, and professional relationships. Workplace anxiety may reduce productivity, hinder collaboration, and prevent individuals from pursuing advancement opportunities. Building strong support systems through therapy, peer groups, and self-help strategies can make a significant difference in restoring social confidence and fostering healthy, supportive connections.
Signs of Anxiety
Anxiety can manifest in a variety of ways—physically, behaviorally, and psychologically—affecting how a person feels, thinks, and functions. While it’s normal to feel anxious in response to stressful events, anxiety disorders are marked by symptoms that are more intense, long-lasting, and disruptive to everyday life. Being able to identify these signs across different areas can help determine when anxiety might be more than a temporary experience.
Physical Signs of Anxiety
Anxiety activates the body’s stress response, often producing noticeable physical changes. These symptoms can vary in severity and sometimes resemble other medical conditions, making them confusing or concerning for those affected.
- Rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations
- Shortness of breath or episodes of hyperventilation
- Muscle tightness, aches, or tension
- Headaches or frequent migraines
- Nausea, stomach pain, or digestive disturbances
- Sweating or experiencing sudden chills
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint
- Persistent fatigue or difficulty falling and staying asleep
Behavioral Signs of Anxiety
Anxiety often alters behavior, as individuals subconsciously adjust their actions to cope with overwhelming stress or fear. These behavioral patterns may initially seem like coping strategies but can lead to further complications over time.
- Avoidance of specific situations, people, or environments
- Constant restlessness or fidgeting
- Difficulty focusing on or completing tasks
- Indecisiveness or frequent procrastination
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Repeated reassurance-seeking or compulsive checking
- Decreased productivity or performance at work or school
Psychological Signs of Anxiety
The psychological effects of anxiety are often internal but deeply impactful. These symptoms influence how a person processes thoughts and emotions and can significantly affect mental well-being.
- Ongoing worry or fear, often out of proportion to the situation
- Negative thought patterns, including catastrophizing
- Trouble concentrating or experiencing mental “fog”
- Heightened irritability or a constant sense of unease
- Sudden, intense feelings of panic or dread
- Low confidence, self-doubt, or feelings of inadequacy
- A sense of being overwhelmed or emotionally out of control
How to Treat Anxiety
Managing anxiety effectively often requires a well-rounded, personalized approach that integrates therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and, when appropriate, medication. Because anxiety presents differently for everyone, treatment must be tailored to an individual’s symptoms, goals, and personal preferences. While therapy alone may be effective for some, many people experience the best results through a combination of methods that promote lasting stability and prevent recurrence.
Therapy and Counseling
Therapy is a foundational element in treating anxiety and is often the first step in care. It helps individuals understand the roots of their anxiety, shift unhelpful thought patterns, and develop practical tools for coping. Common evidence-based therapies include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and reframe distorted thoughts while incorporating exposure strategies to reduce fear responses gradually.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation, particularly helpful for those with intense emotional fluctuations.
- Exposure Therapy: Gradually introduces feared situations in a safe, structured way—especially effective for phobias and social anxiety.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages embracing anxious thoughts without judgment and aligning actions with personal values.
- Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores unresolved emotional conflicts and patterns that may be driving chronic anxiety.
Medication Support
For individuals with moderate to severe anxiety, medication can be an important component of treatment, often used alongside therapy to provide greater symptom relief.
- SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Antidepressants like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft) that help balance serotonin levels.
- SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors): Such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), which regulate both serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Benzodiazepines: Fast-acting medications like alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan), typically prescribed short-term due to the risk of dependence.
- Beta-Blockers: Often used for performance anxiety, these medications help manage physical symptoms like shaking and rapid heartbeat.
- Buspirone: A non-sedative, low-dependency option for long-term anxiety management that works gradually over time.
Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care Practices
Integrating healthy habits into daily life can significantly enhance resilience and support emotional regulation. These small, consistent changes often have a big impact:
- Physical Activity: Regular movement, such as walking, stretching, or strength training, can ease tension and boost mood-enhancing chemicals.
- Nutritious Diet: A balanced intake of vitamins and nutrients helps maintain stable energy and emotional wellness.
- Sleep Hygiene: A consistent sleep routine, free of late-night screen use, supports emotional balance and cognitive clarity.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practices like deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation help calm the body and mind.
- Reduce Stimulants: Limiting intake of caffeine, nicotine, and other stimulants can help minimize agitation and anxiety spikes.
Social and Emotional Support
Strong social connections play a crucial role in recovery. Whether it’s emotional encouragement or practical help, a reliable support system makes the journey more manageable.
- Open Communication: Talking with trusted friends or loved ones can offer emotional relief and perspective.
- Support Groups: Sharing experiences in peer-led or therapeutic groups—online or in person—can reduce feelings of isolation.
- Professional Guidance: Working with therapists, counselors, or life coaches provides structure, tools, and accountability.
Holistic and Complementary Therapies
For many, natural or alternative approaches can be effective when integrated into a broader treatment plan. Always consult with a healthcare provider before combining these with prescribed medication.
- Herbal Remedies: Supplements like ashwagandha, chamomile, and lavender may help soothe anxiety symptoms.
- Aromatherapy: Essential oils such as lavender and bergamot can aid relaxation and sleep.
- Acupuncture: A traditional technique believed to help regulate the nervous system and alleviate stress.
- Massage Therapy: Helps release muscle tension and promotes a sense of calm.
Get Anxiety Treatment in South Portland, Maine
If you’re ready to take back control and move forward with strength, Evergreen Behavioral Health is here to help. Our compassionate team is dedicated to walking alongside you throughout your recovery journey, offering personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Through evidence-based therapies, holistic support, and a nurturing environment, we strive to create the foundation for lasting relief and personal transformation.
Call us at (888) 907-7290, email info@evergreenbh.com, or visit us in person at 707 Sable Oaks Drive in South Portland, ME (04106).
We’re here for you 24/7—you don’t have to face anxiety alone.