Understanding Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders manifest in a number of different ways, typically due to a complex combination of genetics, environment, and psychology. Treatment for the whole range of anxiety disorders is available at our San Francisco anxiety therapy center, with each type presenting its own distinct characteristics and concerns:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD involves excessive and ongoing worry that is uncontrollable and interferes with functioning in daily life. It includes:
- Excessive nervousness or restlessness
- Inability to concentrate
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Fatigue
- Sleep disturbances
Panic Disorder
Panic disorder is characterized by brief and severe attacks of fear called panic attacks. Symptoms may involve:
- Heart palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating or trembling
- Feeling dizzy or out of control
- Chest pain
- Fear of dying
Social Anxiety Disorder
This is a form of anxiety that is all about a fear of embarrassing oneself severely or being judged severely by others in public. The following are some common signs:
- Avoidance of social gatherings
- Physical symptoms like blushing or nausea in public
- Fear of speaking or performing in front of others
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Although separately listed, OCD comprises compulsive behaviors one performs to decrease intrusive thoughts or fear. It is typically treated alongside anxiety disorders.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a posttraumatic consequence of a traumatic event and is characterized by high co-morbidity with anxiety disorders. We engage in trauma-informed therapy to facilitate healing of the origins of such symptoms.
Specific Phobias
Phobias refer to irrational fear responses to some stimulus such as flying, height, animals, or situation. Fears can create patterns of avoidance that limit living.