Anxiety

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders, affecting more than 300 million people worldwide. At KAVN Health in Columbia, Maryland, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Veronica Kwegyir-Afful, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, and the team specialize in diagnosing and treating anxiety. They combine psychotherapy, prescription medication, and healthy lifestyle changes to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Call the nearest KAVN Health office to schedule an anxiety consultation, or book an appointment online today. Telemedicine appointments are also available for patients liivng in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, and Washington, DC. 

What is an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder is a mental health condition that causes lasting feelings of fear and dread. 

Everyone experiences anxiety occasionally, usually because of a stressful situation like a work presentation. Some anxiety is healthy; it focuses our attention and helps us stay safe. But if the emotion persists for days, even months, it can affect your mood, outlook, and quality of life.

Are there different types of anxiety disorders?

At KAVN Health, Veronic treats several types of anxiety disorders, including:

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

GAD causes consistent feelings of overwhelm and stress. It’s characterized by excessive worrying about everyday events, such as job responsibilities, errands, and personal relationships.

Panic disorder

Panic disorder causes frequent, unexpected panic attacks. These attacks can strike anytime, making maintaining a job or performing other routine tasks difficult. 

Specific phobias

A phobia is something that causes you to experience severe fear of anxiety. There are dozens of phobias, but all can disrupt your life. 

Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is an intense fear of being overwhelmed and unable to escape a specific situation or setting. If you have agoraphobia, you might avoid going to new places or leaving home altogether.

How are anxiety disorders diagnosed?

The KAVN Health team diagnoses anxiety disorders during an in-person or telemedicine exam. 

First, your provider completes a one-on-one interview, asking about your symptoms, sleep habits, and lifestyle. Tell them about any medical conditions you’ve been diagnosed with and any medications you take. Certain drugs and health problems can trigger anxiety, so they must be aware.

After gathering a complete picture of your health, your provider compares your symptoms to the criteria for anxiety in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR). If you meet the criteria, your provider diagnoses you with an anxiety disorder.

How are anxiety disorders treated?

The KAVN Health team treats anxiety disorders using a conservative, patient-centered approach. They might suggest:

• Psychotherapy (counseling)
• Prescription antidepressants
• Benzodiazepines (a class of drugs that relieve anxiety and worry)
• Beta-blockers (drugs that relieve the physical symptoms of anxiety disorders)
• Healthy lifestyle changes, such as meditation and mindfulness training

Often, people with anxiety disorders benefit from a combination of treatments.

Call the nearest KAVN Health office to schedule an anxiety consultation, or book your appointment online today.