Anxiety is the most common mental health issue in the United States today. If you suffer from intrusive and persistent worries or fears, contact Luis J. Olivera-Rodriguez, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist practicing at Lumos Psychiatric Services in Orlando, Florida. Dr. Olivera-Rodriguez provides expert diagnosis and customized treatments to help you develop the tools to cope with your fears. Call Lumos Psychiatric Services or request an appointment online today.
What is an anxiety disorder?
Anxiety is a normal emotion that helps you avoid dangerous situations. It also contributes to your fight or flight response that keeps you safe. However, if you’re plagued by persistent fears that are disproportionate to the situation and interfere with your ability to function, you may have an anxiety disorder.
There are several types of anxiety disorders. Different triggers and symptoms characterize the different types of anxiety.
Generalized anxiety disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder is the most prevalent type of anxiety. It triggers fears about day-to-day experiences such as health, work, and chores.
Panic disorder
Panic disorder causes panic attacks, sudden and severe onset of intense fear, and physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, and sweating.
Social anxiety disorder
Social anxiety disorder stems from insecurities and fears about interacting with other people. For example, you may feel excessively anxious about public speaking or attending events with large groups of people.
Separation anxiety
Separation anxiety causes fears about being apart from people you love. For example, you may worry about a parent or loved one dying or have intrusive worries about your children going to school.
Specific phobias
You may also have a disproportionate fear about a particular object or situation. Common phobias include spiders, flying, and enclosed spaces.
When should I talk to a doctor about anxiety?
You should make an appointment with Dr. Olivera-Rodriguez if your anxieties and fears interfere with your work or relationships. Additionally, if you feel like your anxiety is out of control or if it causes distress, substance misuse, or thoughts of suicide, you should seek professional help at Lumos Psychiatric Services.
How is anxiety treated?
Dr. Olivera-Rodriguez begins anxiety treatment with a comprehensive evaluation of your mental and physical health. He asks about your worries and how they affect your life. He may order lab tests to determine if another medical condition causes your symptoms. Dr. Olivera-Rodriguez also uses pharmacogenetic testing to identify the best medications to meet your needs.
Dr. Olivera-Rodriguez often combines medication with psychotherapy. Anti-anxiety medicine can regulate your brain chemistry and reduce some of your symptoms. During therapy, you explore the issues that contribute to your fears and learn techniques to cope with your anxieties to stop them from disrupting your life.
If anxiety interferes with your life, call Lumos Psychiatric Services or request an appointment online today.
