what we treat
anxiety disorders
What is an Anxiety Disorder?
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health disorders that are characterized by feelings of worry, fear, and apprehension. People with anxiety disorders often experience excessive and persistent worry or fear about everyday situations or events, which can lead to significant distress and impairment in various areas of their lives, such as work, school, and personal relationships
There are several types of anxiety disorders, but some common symptoms include restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.
The prevalence of anxiety disorders in the United States is significant, with the National Alliance on Mental Illness stating that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness affecting 40 million adults each year, which is about 19 percent of the population. These disorders can develop in response to a variety of stressors, such as work-related stress, family issues, financial problems, traumatic events, or chronic medical conditions.
It’s important to note that anxiety disorders are treatable, and various forms of treatment, including psychotherapy and medication, can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Seeking professional help is the first step in managing anxiety symptoms and working towards a more peaceful life.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
diagnosing anxiety disorder
There are several different types of anxiety disorders, each with its own specific symptoms and diagnostic criteria. Some of the most common anxiety disorders include:
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD):
This type of anxiety disorder involves excessive worry and anxiety about everyday events and situations, such as work, school, and personal relationships.
Panic disorder:
This disorder is characterized by sudden and intense episodes of fear and panic, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shortness of breath, also known as panic attacks.
Social anxiety disorder:
This disorder involves an extreme fear of social situations and interactions, leading to avoidance of social events and difficulties in building and maintaining relationships.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD):
This disorder involves persistent, intrusive thoughts and behaviors that are difficult to control, leading to repetitive rituals and compulsions.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD):
This disorder can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, leading to symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance of triggers associated with the trauma.
In a psychiatric consultation with one of our clinicians, we will evaluate the patient’s symptoms, medical and family history to determine their anxiety disorder. This process may involve standardized screening tools like GAD-7. After diagnosis, we will develop a personalized treatment plan to manage the patient’s anxiety and improve their quality of life.
How Do I Know if I Have Anxiety?
Anxiety is a normal and often healthy emotion, but when it becomes excessive and persistent, it can interfere with a person’s daily life and well-being. If you are wondering whether you have anxiety, there are several signs and symptoms to look out for.
Some of the common physical symptoms of anxiety include:
- Rapid heart rate
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Muscle tension and
- Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or diarrhea.
You may also experience persistent feelings of restlessness or being on edge, difficulty concentrating, and trouble sleeping.
Emotionally, anxiety can lead to excessive worrying and irrational fears, as well as feelings of panic or dread. You may also find yourself avoiding certain situations or activities because of your anxiety.
If you are struggling with symptoms of anxiety that are impacting your daily life, Omi Psychiatry & TMS can help. Our mental health providers can evaluate your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan to manage your anxiety and improve your quality of life. Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help today.
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What You Need to Know
Meet Our Team
Dr. Aderonke Omotade is a board-certified internal medicine physician and psychiatrist. She provides compassionate, comprehensive psychiatric care to patients of all ages.
Medication as an option
At Omi Psychiatry & TMS in Baltimore, MD, we see the value that medications offer as part of a person’s treatment. We offer medication management for those who have existing medications and for those who need new medications for their psychiatric conditions. Our clinicians are experts at working with all types of psychiatric medications, including stimulants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anti-anxiety medication.