Treatment for Anxiety in Wilmington, NC—Therapists and Psychologists

One moment, Kevin Love was in the huddle with his teammates. Love is one of the NBA’s best players on one of the NBA’s best teams. He is at the height of his career and physical fitness. However, as his teammates looked around the huddle, suddenly, he was not there. Love was severely criticized for his mystery absence in the middle of a game, but later, he revealed that he was having a panic attack. He left the court because he could barely breathe and felt like he might die. Love has opened up about what it is like to struggle with anxiety—a condition that over 40 million people in the United States have. Here is a picture of what it feels like to battle anxiety. Many people who have anxiety…

• Feel near-constant worry or nervousness.
• Do not know how to explain to their friends and family members that these emotions take a toll on their body and mind.
• Rarely have a break from the burden of these heavy emotions.
• Feel lonely and isolated, as if they are they are the only ones who struggle.
• Carry on a dialogue in their own head that focuses their attention upon fear and insecurity.

“Anxiety is a thin stream of fear trickling through the mind.
If encouraged, it cuts a channel into which all other thoughts are drained.”
—Arthur Somers Roche

Everyone feels worried or afraid at times, but anxiety is a very different experience. Natural emotions rise and fall. Anxiety disorders mean that the anxiety rises uncontrollably. It changes the way people’s brains function, and anxiety disorders are severe illnesses that often require medical interventions. The good news is that interventions are available. Often, healing from anxiety requires working with a mental health professional and seeking treatment.

If your thoughts are unfocused… if worry is a constant companion… if you feel alone… if you are looking for a therapist or psychologist in Wilmington, NC… know that help is available and you are in the right place. Thriveworks Counseling in Wilmington, NC offers treatment for anxiety, and we have helped many clients find the diagnosis and treatment they deserve.

What Exactly Is Anxiety?

People often think of anxiety as a single illness, but it is a disorder that comes in several distinct forms. It is a very personal illness that can look differently in different people. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health, Fifth Edition acknowledges several kinds of anxiety disorders, including…

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – When people speak about anxiety, they are most often referring to this disorder. When people have GAD, they experience severe and persistent anxiety for most of the day, on more days than not, and for at least six months. They will also experience other symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, restlessness, and more.
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) – When anxiety looks like a fear of social situations, it may be Social Anxiety Disorder. People who have SAD often go to great lengths to avoid social interaction and strangers. They often struggle with feeling deep embarrassment when they are around other people. They may also feel as if they are being judged (even if they are clearly not). SAD is a very isolating form of anxiety and often keeps people from the thing they need most—healthy relationships.
• Panic Disorder – Kevin Love had a panic attack, and so have many other people. A panic attack can happen without any forewarning. Often, the symptoms escalate for several minutes, until people feel as if they are having a heart attack or will die. Symptoms may include a racing heart, numb limbs, difficulty breathing, hot flashes, chills, and more. When people experience more than one panic attack, they may have an anxiety disorder called Panic Disorder.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – When people survive a traumatic event, the anxiety and stress that they feel during the event can continue long after the event has passed. Sometimes, this anxiety develops into Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD. When people have PTSD, they often live with a heightened sense of awareness. They may also experience flashbacks, memories, or nightmares about the event. The same emotions an individual experienced during the event can quickly come flooding back.

The Emotional and Physical Toll of Anxiety

Fighting any illness can be exhausting, and anxiety is no different. Anxiety exacts a high toll from those who suffer with it. Some of its side effects include…

• Disrupted Appetite – People may over-eat or lose their appetite completely. Weight fluctuations often occur.
• Irregular Sleep Patterns – People often experience insomnia or hypersomnia.
• Fatigue – Anxiety can drain people of their energy. Normal activity can take herculean strength, and leave people exhausted.
• Difficulty Focusing – Anxiety makes concentration a challenge. Clear thoughts are often elusive, and distractions often abound.
• Indecisiveness – Making a decision can be difficult when fighting anxiety. People often feel stuck, and daily choices may feel overwhelming.

Therapists and Psychologists in Wilmington, NC—Setting Up an Appointment

If you recognized any of the symptoms of anxiety, consider reaching out for help. There are many treatment options for anxiety, and a skilled therapist can often help people find the right option for them. They can also help people incorporate beneficial self-care practices into their day to day that enable them to manage anxiety on their own, like mindfulness. At Thriveworks Counseling in Wilmington, NC, we are committed to helping our clients find the mental health care they need. When you call our office, you may be meeting with your therapist the following day. Weekend and evening appointments are available. We also accept many different forms of insurance. Let’s fight anxiety together. Call today for an appointment.