How does a psychiatrist diagnose anxiety?
For many people, anxiety is a normal emotion, even a helpful one. When anxiety symptoms cause significant problems with daily life, they should be evaluated by an anxiety specialist. The various anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health issues. Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder include:
Experiencing severe anxiety on most days, for most of the day
Anxiety so intense that it interferes with normal functioning
Persistent inability to manage or reduce the anxiety
Frequently feeling on edge or irritable for no reason
Getting more tired than usual, even needing naps
New onset difficulty with paying attention, or mind going blank
Physical problems like soreness, jaw clenching, headaches, or stomach issues
Difficulty falling and staying asleep due to anxiety
Can a psychiatrist test for anxiety?
Dr. Smith takes many factors into account when diagnosing anxiety, including screening tests. Take an anxiety test to measure your symptoms. (Responses are anonymous.)
Are there other kinds of anxiety?
Yes. The anxiety symptoms listed above are for Generalized Anxiety Disorder, the most common anxiety disorder. Other anxiety disorders include Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Medication for anxiety works for each of these anxiety disorders.
What are examples of anxiety medications?
The best medications for anxiety are more commonly known as antidepressants. When used for anxiety, medications such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro usually treat anxiety symptoms more quickly, more effectively, and at lower doses than they do for depression. An exception is OCD, which usually requires high-dose antidepressants.
Are there as-needed anxiety medications?
Some medications for anxiety are taken on an as-needed basis, instead of every day. They include Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, and Valium. Ideally, they are used for infrequent panic attack symptoms. These medications are safe when taken occasionally and under close supervision. Regular daily use can lead to addiction. A person who needs to use these medications frequently should speak to an anxiety specialist about the best medication for anxiety for them.
How do I talk to Dr. Smith about this?
Contact Dr. Smith about evaluation and treatment of anxiety.