You will sometimes hear people say that they feel anxious. However, they might just be nervous or stressed about something specific. While this is nothing to ignore, true anxiety disorders are much more serious. Anxiety disorders are common mental health issues that make you feel intense fear and worry, to the point where it affects your daily life. It makes it hard to work, study, and enjoy time with your friends and family.
We Level Up Washington is here to show you that anxiety treatment will help you heal and feel better. With our therapy and your lifestyle changes, you will improve your quality of life. So don’t hesitate to contact us!
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What Is Anxiety Disorder?
According to The National Institute on Mental Health, occasional anxiety is an expected part of life. You might feel anxious when faced with a problem at work, before taking a test, or before making an important decision. But anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear.
If you have an anxiety disorder, know that anxiety does not go away and can get worse over time. It’s important to get an anxiety treatment as soon as possible. The symptoms can interfere with your daily activities such as job performance, school work, and relationships.
From KFF analysis of the Household Pulse Survey by the US Census Bureau from 2023, we know that 32.6% of Washington’s adult population had symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder from February 1 to 13.
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FREE 24/7 Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Services HotlineRisk Factors for Developing Anxiety Disorder
Researchers are finding that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the risk of developing an anxiety disorder. Although the risk factors for each type of anxiety disorder can vary, some general risk factors for all types of anxiety disorders include:
- Temperamental traits of shyness or behavioral inhibition in childhood
- Exposure to stressful and negative life or environmental events in early childhood or adulthood
- A history of anxiety or other mental illnesses in biological relatives
- Some physical health conditions, such as thyroid problems or heart arrhythmias
- Caffeine or other substances/medications that can produce or aggravate anxiety symptoms
Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder
To understand this better, we should separate the symptoms of anxiety disorders into different categories:
- Physical symptoms
- Emotional symptoms
- Cognitive symptoms
Physical Symptoms
Anxiety disorder manifests through the following physical symptoms:
- Fatigue: You might feel tired all the time, even if you get enough sleep.
- Muscle tension: Your muscles may feel tight or sore, leading to discomfort.
- Headaches: Frequent headaches can make it hard to focus on tasks.
- Stomach issues: You might experience nausea, stomachaches, or digestive problems.
- Sweating: You may sweat excessively, even in cool environments.
- Heart palpitations: Your heart might race or pound, especially in stressful situations.
With these symptoms, you might feel exhausted after a full night’s sleep, which drains your energy. You experience tension headaches after a long day at work. Also, you feel queasy before a meeting or social event.
If you experience any of these symptoms, anxiety treatment in Washington can help. At We Level Up WA, we are ready to listen to you and design the best treatment plan for you.
Emotional Symptoms
When you have an anxiety disorder, you experience symptoms related to your feelings. They are:
- Intense fear or worry: Constantly feeling scared or anxious about various aspects of your life.
- Restlessness: You may feel on edge or unable to relax.
- Irritability: Small things might easily upset or frustrate you.
- Panic attacks: Sudden episodes of intense fear and physical symptoms.
In your daily life, you worry excessively about your job performance or personal relationships. For example, you cannot enjoy time that is supposed to be relaxing, like going to the cinema, because you are unable to sit still during a movie. Furthermore, you might snap at people around over minor issues.
Cognitive Symptoms
Cognitive symptoms of anxiety disorder include:
- Difficulty concentrating: Finding it hard to focus on tasks or follow conversations.
- Overthinking: Constantly thinking about worst-case scenarios.
- Memory problems: Struggling to remember important details or tasks.
- Negative thoughts: Frequently having pessimistic or self-critical thoughts.
These symptoms disrupt your daily life as you struggle to concentrate on work because you worry about things such as upcoming events. You spend hours thinking about what could go wrong in a situation. Also, you forget to complete simple tasks, such as paying bills or returning phone calls.
All of these symptoms can disrupt your life and seriously impact your quality of life. Therefore, consider looking for anxiety treatment in Spokane WA. Find the support you need and deserve and get on the path to a calmer, more content life.
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Hotline: (509) 348-4077Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are several types of anxiety disorders:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Phobias
- Separation anxiety disorder
- Selective mutism
As one of the best anxiety treatment centers Washington state can offer, We Level Up Washington is very well equipped to ensure that you receive the care you need.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
People with a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) display excessive anxiety or worry, most days for at least 6 months, about many things such as personal health, work, social interactions, and everyday routine life circumstances.
Generalized anxiety disorder symptoms include:
- Feeling restless, wound-up, or on edge
- Being easily fatigued
- Having difficulty concentrating; mind going blank
- Being irritable
- Having muscle tension
- Difficulty controlling feelings of worry
- Having sleep problems, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep, restlessness, or unsatisfying sleep
With generalized anxiety disorder, you might find it hard to relax and enjoy life. Everyday tasks can feel overwhelming and exhausting.
Panic Disorder
People with panic disorder have recurrent unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear that come on quickly and reach their peak within minutes. Attacks can occur unexpectedly or can be brought on by a trigger, such as a feared object or situation.
During a panic attack, you may experience:
- Heart palpitations, a pounding heartbeat, or an accelerated heart rate
- Sweating
- Trembling or shaking
- Sensations of shortness of breath, smothering, or choking
- Feelings of impending doom
- Feelings of being out of control
People with panic disorder often worry about when the next attack will happen and actively try to prevent future attacks by avoiding places, situations, or behaviors they associate with panic attacks. Worrying about panic attacks and the effort spent trying to avoid attacks cause significant problems in various areas of the person’s life, including the development of agoraphobia. All these things are reasons you should get anxiety treatment in Spokane WA.
Phobia-Related Disorders
A phobia is an intense fear of—or aversion to—specific objects or situations. Although it can be realistic to be anxious in some circumstances, the fear people with phobias feel is out of proportion to the actual danger caused by the situation or object.
People with a phobia:
- May have an irrational or excessive worry about encountering the feared object or situation
- Take active steps to avoid the feared object or situation
- Experience immediate, intense anxiety upon encountering the feared object or situation
- Endure unavoidable objects and situations with intense anxiety
There are several types of phobias and phobia-related disorders. You can have a specific phobia, sometimes called a simple phobia. As the name suggests, it means you have an intense fear of or intense anxiety about specific types of objects or situations. Some examples of specific phobias include the fear of flying, heights, specific animals (usually spiders, snakes, and dogs), receiving injections, and blood.
Also, there is social anxiety disorder (previously called social phobia). People with social anxiety disorder have a general intense fear of, or anxiety toward, social or performance situations. They worry that actions or behaviors associated with their anxiety will be negatively evaluated by others. This worry often causes people with social anxiety to avoid social situations.
Often, people who struggle with social anxiety disorder turn to substance use just to feel normal. Although this seems like a good solution at the beginning, it makes you develop a condition where you face problems with mental health and addiction. When addiction and a mental health issue co-occur in one person, we speak of dual diagnosis. Our dual diagnosis treatment in Spokane WA can help you get better as we address both problems at the same time.
Another prevalent example is agoraphobia. People with agoraphobia have an intense fear of two or more of the following situations:
- Using public transportation
- Being in open spaces
- Being in enclosed spaces
- Standing in line or being in a crowd
- Being outside of the home alone
People with agoraphobia often avoid these situations, in part because they think being able to leave might be difficult or impossible in the event they have panic-like reactions or other embarrassing symptoms. In the most severe form of agoraphobia, you can become housebound and even reject all options to get anxiety treatment.
Phobias can harm your quality of life. You might go to great lengths to avoid the things you fear, which can interfere with your daily routine and limit your experiences. Therefore, if you or someone you know needs anxiety treatment in Washington, do reach out. We Level Up Washington is here to support you.
Separation Anxiety Disorder
Separation anxiety is often thought of as something that only children deal with; however, adults can also be diagnosed with separation anxiety disorder. People who have separation anxiety disorder have fears about being separated from people to whom they are attached.
They often worry that some sort of harm or something untoward will happen to their attachment figures while they are separated. This fear leads them to avoid being separated from their attachment figures and to avoid being alone. People with separation anxiety may have nightmares about being separated from those they love or experience physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches when separation occurs or is anticipated.
If you are dealing with separation anxiety disorder, you might avoid being alone or away from loved ones, affecting your ability to work, study, or participate in social activities. Both for the sake of your well-being and that of your attachment figures, it is advisable to reach out to anxiety treatment centers Washington State has and get the help you need.
Selective Mutism
A somewhat rare disorder associated with anxiety is selective mutism. Selective mutism occurs when people fail to speak in specific social situations despite having normal language skills. You might have trouble communicating at school, work, or social events, leading to social isolation and academic or occupational difficulties.
Selective mutism usually occurs before the age of 5 and is often associated with the following:
- Extreme shyness
- Fear of social embarrassment
- Compulsive traits
- Withdrawal
- Clinging behavior
- Temper tantrums
People diagnosed with selective mutism are often also diagnosed with other anxiety disorders and need anxiety treatment.
Options for Anxiety Treatment Washington Offers
Anxiety treatment disorders are generally related to psychotherapy, medication, or both. There are many ways to treat anxiety, and you should work with your doctor to choose the anxiety treatment that is best for you.
Here are some options:
- Psychotherapy
- Medications
- Support groups
- Lifestyle changes
Psychotherapy
For Psychotherapy or “talk therapy” to be effective, it must be directed at your anxieties and tailored to your needs.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety is an example. It teaches you different ways of thinking, behaving, and reacting to anxiety-producing and fearful objects and situations. CBT for mental health can also help you learn and practice social skills, which is vital for treating social anxiety disorder.
Cognitive therapy and exposure therapy are two CBT methods that are often used, together or by themselves, to treat social anxiety disorder. Cognitive therapy focuses on identifying, challenging, and then neutralizing unhelpful or distorted thoughts underlying anxiety disorders. On the other hand, exposure therapy focuses on confronting the fears underlying an anxiety disorder to help you engage in activities you have been avoiding.
Exposure therapy is sometimes used along with relaxation exercises and/or imagery. CBT can be conducted individually or with a group of people who have similar difficulties. Often, you will have to complete “homework” between sessions.
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Medication as a Form of Anxiety Treatment in Washington
Medication does not cure anxiety disorders but can help relieve symptoms of anxiety, panic attacks, or extreme fear and worry. Medication for anxiety is prescribed by doctors, such as a psychiatrist or primary care provider. Some states also allow psychologists who have received specialized training to prescribe psychiatric medications. The most common classes of anxiety treatment using medications to combat Anxiety disorders are anti-anxiety drugs (such as benzodiazepines), antidepressants, and beta-blockers.
Anti-Anxiety Medications
The most common anti-anxiety medications are called benzodiazepines. Although benzodiazepines are sometimes used as first-line treatments for generalized anxiety disorder, they have both benefits and drawbacks.
Anxiety treatment with benzodiazepines takes effect more quickly than antidepressant medications often prescribed for anxiety. However, you can build up a tolerance to them if they are taken over a long period of time. It means that you may need higher and higher doses to get the same effect. In some cases, you may even become dependent on them.
To avoid these problems, doctors usually prescribe benzodiazepines for short periods of time, a practice that is especially helpful for older adults, people who have substance abuse problems, and people who become dependent on medication easily.
If you suddenly stop taking benzodiazepines, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, or your anxiety may return. Therefore, benzodiazepines should be tapered off slowly. When you and your doctor have decided it is time to stop the medication, the doctor will help you slowly and safely decrease your dose.
For long-term use, benzodiazepines are often considered a second-line treatment for anxiety (with antidepressants being considered a first-line treatment) as well as an “as-needed” treatment for any distressing flare-ups of symptoms.
As an alternative to benzodiazepines, some doctors prescribe another type of anti-anxiety medication, buspirone. Buspirone is a non-benzodiazepine medication specifically indicated for chronic anxiety treatment. However, it does not help everyone.
Anxiety Treatment with Antidepressants
Antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly used as first-line treatments for anxiety. Less-commonly used—but also effective—treatment options for anxiety disorders are older classes of antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Antidepressants are used at our depression treatment Washington center. But it is not only for depression. They can also be used in anxiety treatment. They may help improve the way your brain uses certain chemicals that control mood or stress. You may need to try several different antidepressant medicines before finding the one that improves your symptoms and has manageable side effects. A medication that has helped you or a close family member in the past will often be considered.
Antidepressants can take time to work, so it’s important to give the medication a chance before concluding its effectiveness. If you begin taking antidepressants, do not stop taking them without the help of a doctor. As is the case with benzodiazepines, quitting antidepressants abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Beta-Blockers
Although beta-blockers are most often used to treat high blood pressure, they can also be used to help relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat, shaking, trembling, and blushing. These medications, when taken for a short period of time, can help people keep physical symptoms under control. They can also be used “as needed” to reduce acute anxiety, including as a preventive intervention for some predictable forms of performance anxieties.
Choosing the Right Medication During Anxiety Treatment in Washington State
Some types of drugs may work better for specific types of anxiety disorders, so people should work closely with their doctor to identify which medication is best for them. Certain substances such as caffeine, over-the-counter cold medicines, illicit drugs, and herbal supplements may aggravate the symptoms of anxiety disorders or interact with prescribed medication.
Choosing the right medication, dose, and anxiety treatment plan should be done under an expert’s care and should be based on a person’s needs and their medical situation. Your doctor may try several medicines before finding the right one.
You and your doctor should discuss:
- How well medications are working or might work to improve your symptoms
- Benefits and side effects of each medication
- Risk for serious side effects based on your medical history
- The likelihood of the medications requiring lifestyle changes
- Costs of each medication
- Other therapies, medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking and how these may affect your anxiety treatment. A combination of medication and psychotherapy is the best approach for many people with anxiety disorders
- How to stop taking a medication safely
At We Level Up Washington, as one of the premier anxiety treatment centers in Washington State, we make sure all your needs are met and all your questions are answered.
Support Groups
Some people with anxiety disorders might benefit from joining a self-help or support group and sharing their problems and achievements with others. That should be a part of your anxiety treatment. Internet chat rooms might also be useful, but any advice received over the Internet should be used with caution, as Internet acquaintances have usually never seen each other, and what has helped one person is not necessarily what is best for another.
You should always check with your doctor before following any anxiety treatment advice found on the internet. Talking with a trusted friend or member of the clergy can also provide support. However, it is not necessarily a sufficient alternative to the care you can get from a doctor or other health professional.
Stress Management Techniques
Stress management techniques and meditation can help people with anxiety disorders calm themselves and may enhance the effects of therapy. Aerobic exercise can help some people manage their anxiety; however, exercise should not take the place of standard care, and more research is needed.
Self-Help Strategies for Anxiety Management
In addition to anxiety treatment in Washington, it is also helpful to implement some self-help strategies to manage your condition.
Mindfulness exercises, like meditation and body scans, can help you stay present and reduce tension. Spend a few minutes each day focusing on your breath and scanning your body for any tightness you can release.
Breathing techniques, such as deep breathing and the 4-7-8 method, can also calm your nervous system. Practice slow, deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth, or try inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 7, and exhaling for 8.
Lifestyle changes make a big difference as well. Regular exercise, like walking or yoga, can reduce anxiety. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding excessive caffeine and sugar helps too. Make sure you get enough sleep, aiming for 7-9 hours each night, and establish a consistent sleep routine. Limiting alcohol and avoiding drugs is important too, as they can worsen anxiety. Finally, stay connected with friends and family to feel supported and less isolated.
We Level Up WA – Leader Among Anxiety Treatment Centers Washington State Has
You want to choose the ideal center for anxiety treatment Washington offers you. Here’s why you should choose us:
- First-class facilities and amenities: Our private, serene facilities offer a peaceful and comfortable setting for your recovery. We focus on your comfort to help you heal better.
- High-quality anxiety treatment: Our renowned mental health centers provide top-notch care for anxiety and secondary substance abuse issues. We use proven methods and create personalized care plans just for you.
- Low patient-to-therapist ratio: You’ll get personalized attention from experienced professionals. Our low patient-to-therapist ratio ensures you receive the support you need.
- Comprehensive dual-diagnosis treatment: We treat both your anxiety and any co-occurring substance abuse issues. Our thorough approach to anxiety treatment and therapies addresses all aspects of your health.
- Family and alumni programs: We support both you and your loved ones. Our family programs help those close to you understand and support your recovery. Our alumni programs offer ongoing support after you leave our care.
The Admission Process to We Level Up Washington Anxiety Treatment
When you decide to join our anxiety treatment Spoke WA center, here is what happens next:
- Call us. You’ll be assigned an admissions coordinator. They will complete a 15-30 minute evaluation of your or your loved one’s medical, mental health, and substance abuse history.
- We’ll check your insurance. While on the phone, we will collect information to determine if your health insurance is accepted. We accept major providers, so the answer will likely be yes.
- We will explore other payment methods. If your insurance isn’t accepted or you prefer other payment methods, we’ll present you with a range of alternative options.
- We assign you a treatment consultant. They will coordinate with the facility and treatment staff, providing you with a tailored and seamless experience.
- Our team arranges transportation. If you’re arriving from out of town, call us to schedule your transportation.
- Your new life begins. Upon arrival at our anxiety treatment Washington center, our staff will greet you and finalize the admissions process. You’ll then begin building your new future.
Reclaim Your Life with Tailored Anxiety Treatment Spokane WA Offers
Anxiety disorder is a condition that should not be taken lightly. We Level Up Washington can provide you or someone you love with anxiety treatment in Washington that brings results. With professional care and in a safe environment, you will be on the path to a more fulfilled life. Feel free to call us to speak with one of our counselors. Our specialists know what you are going through. Take action today and start building a happier life!
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Source
“Mental Health and Substance Use State Fact Sheets.” KFF, 13 Dec. 2021, www.kff.org/statedata/mental-health-and-substance-use-state-fact-sheets/washington/.