Nearly one-third of all adolescents and adults develop an anxiety disorder over the course of their lifetime; between 8-23% of them face such severe anxiety that it’s disabling. At Summit Health and Wellness Center, Keenan Smart, MD, understands the challenge of overcoming anxiety and helps people from throughout Oklahoma by providing individualized therapy that fits with each person’s needs, medication management, and medical marijuana evaluations. To schedule an appointment for yourself or your child, call the office in Norman, Oklahoma, or use the online booking feature.

request an appointment

What are the symptoms of anxiety?

When you experience anxiety, it can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms, including:

Physical Symptoms:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Rapid breathing
  • Sweating or trembling
  • Muscle tension
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Nausea or gastrointestinal issues
  • Sleep disturbances

Emotional Symptoms:

  • Persistent worry or fear
  • Feelings of restlessness or being on edge
  • Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
  • Irritability or mood swings

Behavioral Symptoms:

  • Avoidance of certain situations or activities
  • Difficulty making decisions
  • Changes in eating or sleeping patterns

Anxiety can be triggered by specific events or may be more generalized, affecting daily life and functioning. If anxiety becomes overwhelming or persistent, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional for effective management and treatment.

How do you treat anxiety?

Treating anxiety often involves a combination of strategies tailored to the individual’s needs:

  1. Therapy:
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with anxiety.
  • Exposure Therapy: Gradually exposes individuals to feared situations to reduce avoidance and anxiety.
  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Helps individuals develop awareness and acceptance of their thoughts and feelings.
  1. Medication:
  • Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed.
  • Benzodiazepines: These can be effective for short-term relief but are typically not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of dependence.
  • Buspirone: An alternative option for chronic anxiety.
  1. Lifestyle Changes:
  • Regular exercise can reduce anxiety and improve mood.
  • A balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques are important.
  • Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and recreational drugs, which can exacerbate anxiety.
  1. Relaxation Techniques:
  • Practices like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce symptoms.
  1. Support Groups:
  • Connecting with others facing similar challenges can provide emotional support and coping strategies.
  1. Education:
  • Understanding anxiety and its triggers can empower individuals to manage symptoms more effectively.

Consulting with a healthcare provider at Summit Health and Wellness Center can help determine the best approach for managing anxiety based on individual circumstances.