Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder services offered in Colorado Ohio, Florida, and Massachusetts

Over 6 million American adults have generalized anxiety disorder. Unfortunately, the condition can increase the risk of more serious health problems and affect your quality of life. At Sound Psychiatry and Wellness, a virtual psychiatry practice that serves Colorado, Florida, Ohio, and Massachusetts, Drew Pittman, PMHNP, offers virtual care for generalized anxiety disorder and other anxiety disorders. Using a combination of medications and natural remedies, he can improve your outlook and life. Call Sound Psychiatry and Wellness today to schedule a telepsychiatry appointment or book your visit online. 

I often feel stressed. Could it be generalized anxiety disorder?

Yes. Everyone feels stressed or anxious occasionally, but if your symptoms occur daily or become difficult to control, it might indicate a more serious problem.

There’s not a single cure for generalized anxiety disorder, but healthy lifestyle changes, trigger avoidance, and medication management can reduce the frequency of panic attacks and provide lasting relief. 

What are the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder?

Symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder include:

  • Difficulty handling uncertainty
  • Fear of making the wrong decision
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Persistent worrying or anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Sweating
  • Irritability
  • Inability to relax

Sometimes, generalized anxiety triggers gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome.

Does generalized anxiety increase the risk of other health problems?

Yes. Without treatment, generalized anxiety disorder can affect your health. In fact, people who suffer from anxiety are also more likely to experience chronic pain, sleep problems, and heart disease. It can also sap your energy and pull your focus from other, more important things.

Should I see a psychiatric professional about anxiety?

Yes. Make a telepsychiatry appointment at Sound Psychiatry and Wellness if you regularly find yourself worrying and it’s interfering with your work or relationships. That’s especially true if you’re using drugs or alcohol to cope, or you have thoughts about self-harm or suicide. 

Anxiety is common, and whether you have generalized anxiety disorder or another type of anxiety disorder, such as social anxiety disorder or panic disorder, Drew can help.

How is generalized anxiety disorder diagnosed?

Drew reviews your medical records and asks detailed questions about your symptoms and lifestyle. Then, he has you fill out several psychological questionnaires and compares your responses to the criteria for generalized anxiety disorder in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). 

If Drew suspects your symptoms are due to an underlying medical condition, like thyroid disease, he might refer you to a local lab for blood work or urinalysis or to your primary care physician. 

How is generalized anxiety disorder treated?

At Sound Psychiatry and Wellness, Drew treats generalized anxiety disorder using a conservative and patient-centered approach. He might recommend:

  • Regular exercise
  • Making sleep a priority
  • Using relaxation techniques (e.g., meditation or yoga)
  • Eating a healthy diet
  • Avoiding alcohol and drugs
  • Quitting smoking
  • Quitting caffeine
  • Counseling
  • Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication

Drew provides treatment solely through telemedicine and does not prescribe controlled substances like stimulants or benzodiazepines. 

Call Sound Psychiatry and Wellness today to schedule a generalized anxiety disorder appointment, or book your visit online.