Everyone faces personal anxieties and fears.
They are a part of everyday life.
But for millions of Americans, anxieties and fears are overwhelming and persistent, often drastically interfering with daily life. These people suffer from anxiety disorders, a widespread group of psychological disorders that can be terrifying and disabling. It is estimated that more than 24 million Americans (or 1 out of 10) will suffer from some form of anxiety disorder during their lifetime. While these conditions can be disabling, they are also very responsive to treatment. Yet, tragically, less than 23 percent of those who suffer from anxiety disorders ever receive treatment.
Anxiety is a normal response to dangerous or threatening situations, such as physical assaults or accidents. Under these circumstances, anxiety helps us to evaluate a situation and mobilize our resources to escape and to protect ourselves or our loved ones.
In moderation, anxiety helps us to be more efficient and to improve our performance. In excess, anxiety can impair performance and trouble our lives. When anxiety reaches high levels of intensity, daily functioning can be adversely affected. At these times, the person is likely to be suffering from an Anxiety Disorder.
The conditions classified as anxiety disorders and treated in our clinic include panic disorder, agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, simple or single phobias, social anxiety and phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, and anxiety disorders in children.
TREATMENT
Anxiety disorders are among the most treatable psychological disorders. Common.treatiment methods vary widely.
The Anxiety Disorders Association of America has determined that the most effective treatments involve cognitive-behavior therapy and medication.
Cognitive therapy helps people analyze and direct their thoughts and beliefs that may be causing or contributing to overwhelming anxiety. Cognitive therapy helps people learn to distinguish realistic thinking and appraisal from catastrophic, fear-producing thoughts.
Behavior therapy employs a variety of techniques that help people modify and change their reactions and behavior. A primary treatment technique is gradual exposure to anxiety-producing objects or situations.
Medication often plays an important role in the treatment of anxiety disorders. It is most effective when used in conjunction with cognitive-behavior therapy.
For further information contact: Anxiety Disorders Association of America 6000 Executive Boulevard, Suite 200 Rockville, MD 20852-3801 (301) 231-9350
or Anxiety and Panic Disorders Clinic of Santa Barbara
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