If you experience fear, panic, or worry in situations that don’t usually bother other people, anxiety could be to blame. At his practice in Belmont, California, board-certified psychiatrist Michael Lara, MD, offers highly effective treatments for anxiety to improve your quality of life. Call his office to learn more or book an appointment online today.
Anxiety is a common mental health challenge that causes you to feel fearful or anxious in situations that don’t usually bother other people. While nearly everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, ongoing or severe anxiety might negatively affect your job, family, and other interpersonal relationships.
Common types of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Panic disorder causes intense, sudden feelings of anxiety, fear, or terror, as well as a pounding heartbeat and shortness of breath. Social anxiety disorder makes you feel anxious when you’re in social situations or around larger groups of people.
Treatment with Michael Lara, MD, can reduce anxious feelings and help you thrive at work, school, and in relationships.
Common signs of anxiety disorders include:
Complications of untreated anxiety may include depression, insomnia, substance misuse, social isolation, and problems at work or school. In addition, you may experience bowel or digestive problems, headaches, ongoing pain, or poor quality of life.
Anxiety is a common mental health condition, but factors that increase your risk of experiencing it include:
Getting regular exercise, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and seeking early treatment are the best ways to prevent anxiety or severe symptoms of the disease.
Dr. Lara diagnoses anxiety after reviewing your symptoms and medical history. During a comprehensive psychiatric assessment, he asks questions about your thought and behavior patterns, mood, lifestyle habits, and more. He offers virtual telemedicine visits if you prefer speaking with him from the comfort of your home or office.
To reduce or eliminate anxiety, Dr. Lara could recommend:
Lifestyle changes that can reduce anxiety include:
Eat nutritious foods and get plenty of sleep. Surround yourself with a strong social support network.
Taking medications can also diminish anxiety symptoms and restore your quality of life. Dr. Lara often combines medication management with lifestyle changes and counseling.
To get relief from anxiety symptoms, call Michael Lara, MD, or schedule an appointment online today.