Anxiety

When should I seek help?

Anxiety deserves attention when it is difficult to control, causes distress, or interferes with sleep, work, relationships, or activities. Symptoms may include worry, restlessness, muscle tension, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

Anxiety can take different forms, including generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and social anxiety. You do not need to know the diagnosis before making an appointment.

New chest pain, fainting, or severe shortness of breath needs urgent medical assessment. Do not assume these symptoms are a panic attack.

What does an evaluation involve?

We discuss your symptoms, triggers, sleep, health history, medications, caffeine, alcohol, and other substances. A brief questionnaire may help assess severity and track progress. Examination or testing may be appropriate to look for medical contributors.

Treatment tailored to you

• Talk therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an established treatment for many anxiety disorders. Referral to a qualified therapist can be part of your plan.
• Medication: SSRIs or SNRIs may be helpful, depending on the diagnosis and your needs. We discuss expected benefits, side effects, and alternatives.
• Daily strategies: Regular sleep, physical activity, reducing excess caffeine, and relaxation skills can support recovery alongside treatment.

Follow-up and ongoing support

Therapy and medication can take time to help. Follow-up lets us review progress and adjust the plan. Do not stop prescribed medication abruptly without guidance. Report worsening mood, marked agitation, or new suicidal thoughts promptly; use the crisis resources above when immediate support is needed.

Specialist care may be helpful for severe or complex symptoms or when initial treatment has not helped enough. Anxiety can occur alongside depression, and both deserve attention.

Schedule a visit

Bring your medication list and the concerns you would like to discuss. You do not need a diagnosis to ask for help.