Anxiety

Understanding Anxiety: Symptoms, Causes, and How Treatment Can Help

What is Anxiety ?

Anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by excessive, persistent worry or fear that interferes with daily life.

Unlike normal stress or nervousness, anxiety disorders can cause overwhelming feelings of dread, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, or trouble sleeping.

These symptoms may be triggered by specific situations—or occur without a clear cause—and can impact work, relationships, and overall well-being.

With medication, and stress-reduction techniques, most people with anxiety disorders can find significant relief and regain control of their lives.

woman with a serious look reading on her phone

Anxiety Symptoms

  • Anxiety Behavioral Symptoms

    • Excessive worry or fear

    • Avoidance of situations or places

    • Restlessness or feeling on edge

    • Irritability

    • Difficulty concentrating

    • Trouble sleeping (insomnia)

    • Repeatedly seeking reassurance

    • Difficulty making decisions

    • Social withdrawal

    • Perfectionism or overthinking

    • Compulsive behaviors (e.g., nail-biting, skin-picking)

  • Anxiety Physical Symptoms

    • Rapid heartbeat or palpitations

    • Sweating or clammy hands

    • Trembling or shaking

    • Shortness of breath

    • Dizziness or lightheadedness

    • Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort

    • Muscle tension or headaches

    • Fatigue or exhaustion

    • Chest pain or tightness

    • Dry mouth

    • Hot flashes or chills

Medication Management for Anxiety

How Medication Can Help:

  • Reduce excessive worry, fear, and overthinking

  • Ease physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, tension, or shortness of breath

  • Improve sleep, concentration, and emotional regulation

Medication Management Options for Anxiety:

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors):

Often used as first-line treatment due to effectiveness and long-term safety:

SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors):

Helpful for generalized anxiety, especially if fatigue or chronic pain is also present:

Benzodiazepines (Short-Term Use Only):

Used for acute anxiety or panic attacks, but not recommended for long-term use:

At Skye Mental Health, medication management is never one-size-fits-all. We take the time to listen, monitor your progress, and adjust your treatment plan as needed to ensure the best possible results. Healing is a process, and we’re here to walk beside you every step of the way.