If you’re suffering from anxiety, it might be difficult to know where to go or what to do next. With so many options accessible and conflicting information, determining what will work and what won’t be difficult.
At Davenport Psychology in Sarasota, we strive to assist as many clients as possible locate the genuine solutions they need to live happier, healthier lives by understanding anxiety and how to deal with it effectively through therapy and medication. Here are some of the solutions we provide that have shown to be beneficial for our clients.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy
CBT, in particular the rational emotive behavior therapy approach, focuses on changing thought processes and behaviors to promote a more positive attitude. According to Charles R. Davenport, who provides services at Davenport Psychology, cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) teaches you how to modify your thinking patterns.
Then, as your mind becomes more used to having these ideas, it becomes easier for you to have a more optimistic viewpoint. It also tries to modify unhelpful behaviors like eating or sleeping patterns and substance abuse that may be contributing to anxiety.
CBT is frequently used in combination with other forms of therapy. CBT might help people who are suffering from social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
For decades, mindfulness-based stress reduction, commonly known as MBSR, or mindfulness-based stress reduction, has been available. However, its appeal is rising as more individuals become aware of its usefulness in alleviating anxiety symptoms and assisting patients in gaining serenity of mind. Classes—usually several sessions—are included in an MBSR
In these sessions, you’ll discover how to use meditation and relaxation techniques to regulate your emotions in stressful situations. You may conquer many harmful feelings associated with chronic anxiety when you learn to solve the problem rather than dwelling on past mistakes or anticipating future outcomes.
Mindfulness may also help you manage your anxiety by reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm. If you have an existing problem, such as depression or sleeplessness linked to your anxiety issues, practicing mindfulness techniques might help cure those problems over time.
Correct Breathing Techniques
In physiological terms, hyperventilation causes over-oxygenation and under-carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which can trigger panic and dread. Carbon dioxide is important for regulating the body’s response to panic and anxiety.
To prevent hyperventilation, it might be useful to learn how to breathe from their stomach rather than their chest. It’s as simple as allowing your stomach to expand with each breath.
Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest. If you’re utilizing the correct breathing method, your stomach should move rather than your chest. When you’re feeling uneasy, taking deep breaths can aid in relaxation.
Some people have difficulty using their abdominal muscles to breathe. Other kinds of breathing exercises are available for those who suffer from this problem. Alternatively, you can attempt holding your breath for a few seconds instead. It aids in the increase of carbon dioxide in the blood.
Behavior Therapy
Behavior therapy is one alternative treatment for people with severe anxiety. Clients learn new ways to think about their concerns and acquire healthier coping methods as a result of this therapy.
Behavior therapy, on the other hand, has been scientifically confirmed to be quite successful in decreasing symptoms for many individuals. It does take time, however—at least 12 weeks for a complete result. Furthermore, some people may find it more beneficial to work through these difficulties on their own rather than in group sessions.
Behavior therapy often works well alongside other treatments such as medication or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
Support Groups and Education
Professional assistance may make all the difference in managing and curing anxiety disorders. Whether you join a local support group, attend education seminars, or seek out therapy services, expert help may make all of the difference.
Individual and group therapy sessions are available at Davenport Psychology for individuals experiencing anxiety problems. In addition, our medical experts are skilled in providing you with helpful tools and methods to help you manage your symptoms and return to living your life on your own terms.
We also provide counseling services for couples looking for effective ways to address their mental health concerns.
Medication
Medication may also be used in combination with therapy. Medication can provide short-term relief by addressing certain features of an anxiety disorder. However, keep in mind that these drugs do not cure anxiety disorders—and many people take them only during specific periods of their lives, such as while they are going through therapy or working on a particular problem.
Some people take benzodiazepines until they can get into therapy or get married, then quit taking them once they no longer require it for any other reason.
Another frequent prescription drug used to treat anxiety problems is antidepressants, which include SSRIs and SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors).
Wrap up
It may seem like an impossible task to get relief from anxiety. It’s natural to be concerned, but when your worries impact your daily life and you have panic attacks or melancholy, it’s time to seek professional help.
Davenport Psychology in Sarasota provides anxiety therapy for a variety of issues. Our staff is prepared to assist you with panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), GAD, or other anxiety problems.
Our psychotherapists have received extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, both of which are evidence-based treatments. We also support medication management services via collaboration with our local Sarasota psychiatrists, who are experts in treating mental health issues with medicine.
The first step may appear to be the most difficult, so if you’ve made it this far, you probably already know how hard it is to live with anxiety—and if not, well done! Consider yourself fortunate if you believe therapy would be beneficial but aren’t sure where to begin. Give us a call right now 941-702-2457 or Contact Us. We can’t wait to hear from you.