Anxiety/ Panic Attacks
Anxiety can interrupt lives in a way that makes life feel unmanageable. Sometimes anxiety can be extreme, and in some cases, can result in panic attacks. Whether you are feeling mild or severe anxiety, it is important to understand what is happening in your life, either now or from something in the past, that is resulting in anxiety. There are times people know what is causing it, and there are times they don’t. Anxiety can also appear ‘out of the blue’ or unexpectedly. Rita Davis, LCSW will help you understand the cause of your anxiety.
Everyone has anxiety from time to time, and it can be normal in stressful situations such as public speaking or taking a test. However, when feelings become excessive, all-consuming, and interfere with daily living, chronic anxiety can interfere with your quality of life. Anxiety can also have consequences on your physical health.
Possible symptoms of anxiety:
• Racing heart or pounding heart
• Sudden or overwhelming fear
• Trembling or shaking
• Shortness of breath
• Chills or hot flushes
• Nausea or stomach distress
• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Loss of libido
• Dizziness or light-headed
• Tingling in the body such as hands, legs, toes, and face.
• A sense of doom or something bad is about to happen
• Difficulty concentrating or staying focused
• Sleep difficulties
It can be hard to focus when anxiety is severe. Severe anxiety can result in not sleeping well, loss of appetite, or new or worsening fears that prevent people from doing normal activities. In the most severe cases of anxiety or panic attacks, it can even lead to not being able to drive or go to work. Do not wait to get help if anxiety is continuing to get worse. The sooner someone gets help with anxiety, the less chance it will spiral to a more severe level.
If you or someone you know has anxiety, there is help. Rita Davis, LCSW can help you understand the causes of your anxiety, as well as teach you techniques to use when you are feeling anxious. With the help of counseling and techniques, anxiety will begin to decrease over time and you will feel more in control of your life and your emotions.