Vantage Point: Anxiety
At Vantage Mental Health, we believe in offering a fresh perspective on anxiety—what we call the Vantage Point. Too often, anxiety is stigmatized or misunderstood as just being "overly nervous." In reality, anxiety disorders are complex conditions that affect how people think, feel, and behave. Our goal is to help you understand your anxiety in a way that’s free from stigma, while providing the tools you need to manage it and live your best life.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress, but for people with anxiety disorders, these feelings are persistent and overwhelming. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), anxiety disorders can take different forms, such as:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Panic Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder
Specific Phobias (like heights)
While each type of anxiety disorder has its unique features, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is the most common. People with GAD experience excessive worry about various aspects of life, often finding it difficult to control their anxiety.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD is characterized by ongoing, uncontrollable worry about a variety of topics, such as health, work, or social interactions. Common symptoms of GAD include:
Constant feelings of worry or tension
Restlessness or feeling on edge
Fatigue and difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Sleep disturbances
It’s important to recognize that GAD, like other anxiety disorders, is a treatable condition, and seeking help is the first step to managing it.
Treatment Options for Anxiety
At Vantage Mental Health, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating anxiety that includes a combination of therapies, medications, and lifestyle changes.
1. Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a proven method for treating anxiety. It helps individuals challenge and change their thought patterns to reduce anxiety. Other forms of therapy, such as Exposure Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, may also be beneficial depending on the individual’s needs.
2. Medication
Medications like Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are a few of the types of daily medications that can be used to reduce the symptoms and allow you to make long term progress. In some cases, short term or as needed medications such as Benzodiazepines may be used to help manage anxiety symptoms. These medications are often prescribed alongside therapy to ensure comprehensive care.
3. Holistic Support
At Vantage, we emphasize the importance of lifestyle strategies in managing anxiety. Exercise, mindfulness practices, and proper sleep hygiene are just a few of the holistic approaches we incorporate into treatment plans.
Why Choose Vantage Mental Health for Anxiety?
At Vantage Mental Health, we take a person-forward approach to anxiety treatment, focusing on your individual needs and goals. Here’s why we’re uniquely positioned to help:
Tailored Treatment Plans: No two people experience anxiety in the same way. We create individualized plans that address your specific symptoms and concerns.
Experienced Team: Our team are experts in treating anxiety and will work with you to find the most effective strategies for your situation.
Non-Profit Mission: Our non-profit model means we focus solely on your well-being, not profit margins. This allows us to prioritize the quality of care and expand access to mental health services.
Whole-Person Care: Our holistic approach integrates traditional therapies with lifestyle changes that support long-term mental health.
Conclusion: See Anxiety from a New Vantage Point
At Vantage Mental Health, we want to help you see anxiety from a new perspective—one that’s free from stigma and focused on understanding and growth. With the right care and support, you can manage your anxiety and live a fulfilling life. Visit the NIMH Anxiety Disorders page to learn more about anxiety and treatment options. Reach out to us to start your journey toward well-being today.