Understanding Anxiety: When Worry Takes Over

A contemplative man sits with his hands clasped during a counseling session, as a therapist takes notes, capturing a moment of introspection and assistance.

"You don’t have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you." – Dan Millman

We all experience anxiety—it’s a normal part of life. It helps us stay alert in dangerous situations and motivates us to prepare for challenges. But when anxiety becomes constant, overwhelming, or interferes with your daily life, it’s something more serious.

As a psychiatrist, I want you to know: you’re not overreacting, and you’re not alone. Anxiety disorders are common, but they are also highly treatable.

📊 Anxiety by the Numbers

• Anxiety disorders affect over 40 million adults in the U.S. each year.

• That’s about 1 in 5 people—and many go undiagnosed or untreated.

• Women are twice as likely as men to develop an anxiety disorder.

• According to the WHO, anxiety is the most common mental health disorder globally.

  
  

🧠 What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is your body’s natural response to stress. But when it becomes persistent, intense, and uncontrollable, it can lead to anxiety disorders.

It’s not just “in your head”—anxiety affects your body, your brain, and your behavior.

⚠️ Common Signs of Anxiety

Emotional Symptoms:

• Constant worry or nervousness

• A sense of dread or impending doom

• Feeling overwhelmed or “on edge”

Physical Symptoms:

• Racing heart or palpitations

• Muscle tension, trembling, or shaking

• Shortness of breath or chest tightness

• Stomach issues, nausea, or sweating

• Trouble sleeping or staying asleep

Behavioral Symptoms:

• Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety

• Overthinking or ruminating on “what ifs”

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

These symptoms can show up gradually or hit you all at once, sometimes even without a clear cause.

🧩 Types of Anxiety Disorders

There are several forms of anxiety disorders, each with its own focus and symptoms:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Chronic worry about everyday things, even when there’s no obvious reason.

• Panic Disorder: Sudden panic attacks with intense fear and physical symptoms.

• Social Anxiety Disorder: Fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations.

• Specific Phobias: Intense fear of certain objects, places, or situations (like flying, heights, or spiders).

• Separation Anxiety: Especially in children and some adults, fear of being away from loved ones.

  
  

🧠 What Causes Anxiety?

Anxiety is complex. It’s not caused by one thing—it’s shaped by a mix of biology, life experiences, and environment.

Contributing factors include:

• Genetics: Anxiety often runs in families.

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine can play a role.

• Personality: People who are more sensitive or perfectionistic may be more prone.

• Trauma or stress: Childhood adversity, loss, or ongoing life stressors increase risk.

• Health issues or substance use: Conditions like thyroid problems or caffeine overuse can trigger anxiety.

You’re not “too sensitive.” Your brain is responding to stress in overdrive—and that’s something we can work with.

🛠️ How Is Anxiety Treated?

The good news: anxiety is highly treatable, and many people recover fully or learn to manage it effectively.

1. Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps reframe anxious thoughts and reduce avoidance behaviors.

• Exposure therapy: Gently helps people face their fears in a safe, structured way.

• Mindfulness-based therapies: Teach awareness and acceptance without judgment.

2. Medication

• SSRIs and SNRIs: Commonly used to reduce long-term anxiety.

• Benzodiazepines: Short-term relief but not usually recommended for long-term use.

• Beta-blockers or Buspirone: For specific types or milder anxiety symptoms.

3. Lifestyle and Self-Care

• Deep breathing, grounding exercises, and meditation calm the nervous system.

• Regular physical activity lowers stress hormones and boosts mood.

• Limiting caffeine and alcohol helps regulate mood and sleep.

• Sleep, nutrition, and routine form the foundation of mental wellness.

  
  

💡 Living With Anxiety

You can live a full, meaningful life even with anxiety. It may take time, support, and self-compassion—but healing is possible.

Many people with anxiety are resilient, thoughtful, and driven. Their minds are powerful—just sometimes too alert to danger. When you learn how to work with your brain instead of against it, you gain more peace, focus, and freedom.

📣 You Deserve to Feel Calm and in Control

If anxiety is taking up too much space in your life, it’s time to reclaim your peace. You don’t have to do it alone.

👉 Contact me today to start your journey toward healing. Whether it’s therapy, medication, or both—we’ll build a plan that works for you.

Noble Psychiatric Services is Here to Help Contact Us 📞💙 505-595-1200

👉 You are worthy of a calm mind and a steady heart. Let’s take the first step together.