Anxiety Treatment in Atlanta

How Do I Know I Need Anxiety Treatment?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Anxiety disorders are the world’s most common mental disorders, affecting 301 million people in 2019.” However, only 1 in 4 people get anxiety treatment.

Recognizing the need for anxiety treatment is a vital step toward mental well-being. Common indicators include persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities.

Physical symptoms include:

These signs often exceed normal stress responses, indicating a more profound issue.

Additionally, psychological changes can indicate an anxiety disorder. You might notice an overwhelming fear or avoidance of certain situations, irrational dread, or panic attacks characterized by a sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort.

If these symptoms persistently impact your quality of life, causing distress or hindering your ability to function normally, it is time to consider seeking anxiety treatment. Professional help for anxiety treatment in Atlanta can provide the tools and support needed to manage these symptoms effectively and improve overall mental health.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive fear and anxiety. Each of these disorders can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life, but they are typically treatable with a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Here is a list of some common anxiety disorders:

Our Anxiety Treatment Programs in Atlanta

At North Atlanta Behavioral Health, our anxiety treatment programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. We utilize evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Therapy, which have proven effective in managing various anxiety disorders. Our approach also includes group therapy sessions, offering a supportive environment for sharing experiences and learning from others. When medication is deemed appropriate by our on-staff psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, we provide medication management services. Our programs are broken down into three levels of care, so clients can begin to ease themselves back into the world with support and accountability along the way:

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs) provide a structured treatment environment offering a middle ground between inpatient care and outpatient services. Our PHP program is several hours a day, multiple days a week, allowing clients to receive intensive therapy while still living at home and maintaining some daily responsibilities.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) offer a level of support similar to PHPs but with a less time-intensive approach. IOP is designed for individuals who need more support than traditional outpatient therapy but who do not require full-time programming. IOPs usually involve attending therapy sessions and other treatment activities for a few hours per day, several days a week, enabling clients to continue with their regular work or school commitments.

Outpatient Rehab

In addition to these levels of care, we emphasize a holistic approach, incorporating mindfulness and stress management techniques to aid relaxation and self-awareness. Our experienced team of mental health professionals ensures a comprehensive and cohesive treatment experience, focusing on personalized care and long-term management of anxiety.

Causes of Anxiety Disorders

The causes of anxiety disorders are complex and multifaceted, typically involving a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and developmental factors. Genetics play a significant role, as individuals with a family history of anxiety or other mental health disorders are more likely to develop an anxiety disorder themselves.

Environmental factors are also significant contributors. Stressful or traumatic events, particularly during childhood or adolescence, such as the loss of a loved one, abuse, or witnessing violence, can trigger the development of an anxiety disorder. Chronic stress, whether from work, relationships, or ongoing health issues, can also heighten the risk.

Psychologically, personality traits such as perfectionism or a tendency towards negative thinking can predispose individuals to anxiety disorders. Developmental aspects, too, play a role; children who experience overprotective parenting might not develop effective coping mechanisms, making them more vulnerable to anxiety as they grow older.

What to Expect at North Atlanta Behavioral Health

At North Atlanta Behavioral Health, individuals seeking help for anxiety disorders can expect a compassionate and supportive environment. From the first point of contact, clients are met with a team of caring professionals dedicated to providing high-quality, dual diagnosis treatment.

Are Medications Used in Anxiety Treatment?

At North Atlanta Behavioral Health, medication is considered a part of anxiety treatment based on individual needs. The decision to use mental health medication is made carefully, considering each person’s situation and medical background.

Medications commonly used include SSRIs and SNRIs, which help by increasing certain brain chemicals to reduce anxiety. Benzodiazepines offer quick relief but are typically used only for short periods. Buspirone is a good option for the long-term management of anxiety without the risk of dependence. Beta-blockers can also be prescribed to control physical symptoms like shaking or a rapid heartbeat.

The choice to use medication is collaborative, involving both the client and the healthcare provider. While medication can help, it might not be necessary for everyone. We aim to find the best treatment approach for each individual.