anxiety-IIIA

07 Feb How to Combat Anxiety

Posted at 22:39h in Brain Health, Self Care by
0 Likes
By: III-A NP, Dustin Reno

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a common condition defined as chronic, excessive worry for at least 6 months that causes distress or impairment. Symptoms of anxiety include restlessness or nervousness, being easily fatigued, poor concentration, irritability, muscle tension, and/or sleep disturbance. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is important to speak to your primary care provider OR for III-A members, reach out to a III-A Telehealth Provider.

When being assessed for anxiety it is important to know that other conditions, such as those pertaining to physical health, other mental health disorders, and medications or other substances should be ruled out as a primary cause. There are times when these underlying conditions or medications if left untreated, can cause symptoms of anxiety. Correcting these issues may effectively treat and resolve your anxiety. The following are options for treating anxiety:
  • Counseling
  • Serotonergic antidepressants (ex: – Zoloft, Celexa,  Lexapro, etc)
  • Psychotherapy
  • Any combination of these approaches

Other Ways to Combat Anxiety

Lifestyle modification strategies such as increasing activity, taking time each day to meditate and engage in self-mindfulness, exposure to natural light, eating a healthier diet, and finding enjoyable hobbies can be very effective as well as beneficial for the alleviation of anxiety symptoms.

Anxiety is real and can be very debilitating.

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, help is available!  Please contact your primary care physician, schedule counseling sessions, or III-A members can call the III-A Telehealth line.