What is Anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are the most common conditions seen in out-patient setting. Anxiety is a person’s mind and body’s response to stress. Anxiety can manifest in symptoms including worried thoughts, muscle tension, heart racing, shortness of breath, nervousness, sweating, shaking, and a feeling that something awful
might happen. Everyone feels a little bit of anxiety which is useful in helping us stay aware and alert. However, when anxiety becomes debilitating and prevents you from doing normal activities it may be the result of a anxiety disorder.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
General Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder, GAD, is an anxiety disorder characterized by chronic anxiety, exaggerated worry and tension, even when there is little or nothing to provoke it.
–NIMH
Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, OCD, is an anxiety disorder and is characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Repetitive behaviors such as hand washing, counting, checking, or cleaning are often performed with the hope of preventing obsessive thoughts or making them go away. Performing these so-called “rituals,” however, provides only temporary relief, and not performing them markedly increases anxiety.
–NIMH
Panic Disorder (Panic Attacks)
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder and is characterized by unexpected and repeated episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms that may include chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, or abdominal distress.
–NIMH
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD, is an anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal in which grave physical harm occurred or was threatened. Traumatic events that may trigger PTSD include violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, or military combat.
–NIMH
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social Phobia, or Social Anxiety Disorder, is an anxiety disorder characterized by overwhelming anxiety and excessive self-consciousness in everyday social situations. Social phobia can be limited to only one type of situation – such as a fear of speaking in formal or informal situations, or eating or drinking in front of others – or, in its most severe form, may be so broad that a person experiences symptoms almost anytime they are around other people.
–NIMH
Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders
- Excessive Worry
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Fatigue or Tiredness
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Tense Muscles
- Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- Panic Attacks
- Avoiding Social Situations
- Irrational Fears
Our Approach to Treating Anxiety
At TMS El Paso, we understand that anxiety can be overwhelming and significantly impact your daily life. Our comprehensive treatment approach is designed to address your unique needs and help you regain control and achieve a sense of well-being. We offer a combination of advanced therapies, which includes; lifestyle changes, personalized psychotherapy, medication management, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
Diagnostic Process
A thorough and accurate diagnosis is the first step in effectively treating anxiety. Our diagnostic process includes:
- Psychiatric Evaluation: A detailed psychiatric evaluation is conducted by our experienced psychiatric nurse practitioners to assess your mental health history, current symptoms, and any underlying conditions. This comprehensive evaluation helps in formulating a precise diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
- Psychological Testing: We utilize a variety of psychological assessments to evaluate the severity and nature of your anxiety. These tests help us gain a deeper understanding of your symptoms and identify any co-occurring conditions.
- EEG Brain Mapping: This advanced technique involves recording the electrical activity of your brain. EEG brain mapping helps us identify specific patterns associated with anxiety, allowing for a more targeted treatment approach.
Treatments for Anxiety
Lifestyle Changes
We emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes in managing anxiety. Our holistic approach includes guidance on:
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health.
- Nutrition: A balanced diet can influence mood and energy levels, contributing to better anxiety management.
- Sleep: Ensuring adequate and quality sleep is crucial for mental health. We provide strategies to improve sleep hygiene and address sleep disorders.
- Stress Management: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can help you manage stress and reduce anxiety.
Psychotherapy
Our experienced therapists provide individualized psychotherapy to help you understand and manage your anxiety. We use evidence-based approaches, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. CBT is highly effective in helping patients develop coping strategies and improve their emotional regulation.
- Mindfulness-Based Therapy: This approach incorporates mindfulness practices to help you stay present and reduce the impact of anxiety on your daily life. Techniques such as meditation and breathing exercises can enhance your ability to manage stress.
Medication Management
For some individuals, medication can be an essential part of anxiety treatment. Our psychiatric nurse practitioners are skilled in prescribing and managing medications that can help reduce anxiety symptoms. We work closely with you to monitor your response to medication and make adjustments as needed to ensure optimal effectiveness with minimal side effects.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS has been proven effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety, especially for those who have not responded to traditional treatments. This innovative therapy is conducted in a comfortable outpatient setting and has minimal side effects, making it a viable option for many patients.
Comprehensive Care
At TMS El Paso, we are committed to providing comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your anxiety. We are here to support you every step of the way on your journey to better mental health.
Understanding Your Insurance's Coverage
Some insurance providers offer coverage for psychiatric services. Our team will work closely with your health insurance benefits, manage any necessary pre-authorizations, and ensure you are fully informed about your coverage and costs prior to your appointment.
