Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive, persistent, and often irrational feelings of fear, worry, or apprehension. While everyone experiences occasional worries, anxiety disorders involve intense and overwhelming distress that can interfere with daily life.

Symptoms can vary but often include restlessness, racing thoughts, irritability, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, and physical sensations like a rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath. These symptoms can be severe and persistent, impacting both mental and physical well-being.

Yes, anxiety disorders are treatable. Effective treatments include psychotherapy (such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy or CBT), medication, and lifestyle changes. A combination of therapies tailored to an individual’s needs often yields the best results.

Medication can be helpful in managing anxiety disorders, especially when symptoms are severe. However, it’s not the only option. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and self-care techniques can also play a significant role in treatment.

Anxiety is a common response to stress, but when feelings of intense fear or worry persist, it could be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Common symptoms include restlessness, increased heart rate, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. If these symptoms are persistent and affect your daily life, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation. While a definitive diagnosis can only be made through a clinical assessment, if you’re experiencing these symptoms, the best course of action is to reach out to us at Conscious Health to receive a diagnosis, as well as effective treatment.

Yes, there are medications that can treat both depression and anxiety. One such option is Ketamine, which has been successfully used in cases of depression and anxiety disorders. It works differently from traditional antidepressants and offers fast acting, long lasting relief, including when other medications haven’t been effective. However, it’s important to discuss with our specialists at Conscious Health whether Ketamine is a suitable treatment option for your individual needs.

Yes, anxiety can cause shortness of breath. When experiencing anxiety, your body’s fight-or-flight response is activated, leading to physical symptoms such as increased heart rate and rapid breathing. This can result in feeling short of breath or as if you’re not able to get enough air. If you’re experiencing frequent episodes of shortness of breath associated with anxiety, it’s important to seek specialized, professional help at Conscious Health.

Determining if shortness of breath is due to anxiety involves noticing additional symptoms and the context in which it occurs. Shortness of breath from anxiety often accompanies other signs of anxiety such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, or a feeling of panic. It typically arises in response to stress or when worried, rather than being constant or only present during physical exertion. If you’re unsure whether your shortness of breath is caused by anxiety or another condition, reaching out to a healthcare provider is the best course of action.

Yes, nicotine can cause anxiety. While some people use nicotine products believing they reduce stress, nicotine can increase anxiety levels. It stimulates the release of certain neurotransmitters that can heighten stress and anxiety, especially after the initial effects wear off, leading to a cycle of dependence and increased anxiety symptoms over time. If you’re experiencing elevated anxiety and use nicotine products, consider reaching out for support from our team.

Yes, anxiety can indeed make you tired. The constant state of heightened alertness and the stress response associated with anxiety can be exhausting, both mentally and physically. This can lead to feelings of fatigue and decreased energy levels, even if you’re getting enough sleep. The effort to manage anxiety symptoms daily can also contribute to overall tiredness.

Anxiety tics are involuntary movements or sounds that occur as a physical manifestation of anxiety. These tics can vary widely among individuals, ranging from blinking, twitching, throat clearing, or making small noises. While not everyone with anxiety experiences tics, they can be a response to heightened stress levels, serving as a physical outlet for internal tension.

While passing out during an anxiety attack is relatively rare, intense anxiety can lead to symptoms that may feel like you’re about to faint, such as dizziness or lightheadedness. These symptoms are typically caused by hyperventilation, which occurs when you breathe too quickly in response to stress, leading to a decrease in carbon dioxide levels in the blood. However, actual fainting is more likely due to other conditions such as vasovagal syncope, but it is very important to reach out for professional advice to learn what condition you have and begin treatment.

In the moment of an anxiety attack, focus on deep, slow breathing techniques to help calm your nervous system. Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four, hold for a second, and then exhale slowly through your mouth for a count of four. This can help regulate your heart rate and reduce the intensity of your symptoms. Additionally, grounding techniques, such as identifying objects around you or focusing on the sensations in your feet as they touch the ground, can help bring you back to the present moment and reduce feelings of panic.

Even if you manage to calm down during an anxiety attack, it’s important to follow up with professional help. Anxiety attacks can recur, and seeking treatment can help you understand their triggers and develop strategies to manage them more effectively in the future. At Conscious Health, we offer personalized care and support to help you navigate and overcome anxiety long-long term.

Social anxiety disorder is characterized by intense fear or anxiety in social situations where you may be scrutinized or judged by others. Symptoms include excessive worry about social interactions, fear of being embarrassed or humiliated, avoidance of social situations, and physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, or a rapid heartbeat when facing social settings. If these experiences sound familiar and are interfering with your daily life, it may be indicative of social anxiety. The best way to understand your experiences is to reach out to our team for an assessment and treatment.

Anxiety itself is not fatal, but it can significantly impact your quality of life and overall health. Chronic anxiety can lead to increased stress levels, which may contribute to a range of physical health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system. It’s important to manage anxiety through appropriate treatment and support to mitigate these risks. If you’re struggling with anxiety, seeking help from a healthcare provider is crucial.

Yes, alcohol can contribute to the development and exacerbation of anxiety disorders. While some individuals might use alcohol to relieve anxiety temporarily, it can lead to increased anxiety levels over time, especially as the effects of the alcohol wear off. Regular or heavy alcohol use can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to heightened anxiety levels. If you’re experiencing anxiety related to alcohol use, it’s important to seek professional help.

Yes, Xanax (alprazolam), a benzodiazepine used for treating anxiety, can paradoxically worsen anxiety in some individuals, especially with long-term use or upon withdrawal. While effective for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms, dependence on Xanax can develop, leading to increased anxiety, rebound symptoms, and withdrawal effects when the medication is reduced or stopped. Also, the short term effects are much less effective than modern treatments which are fast acting, long lasting relief from anxiety symptoms.

Yes, while ketamine is used for treating severe depression and certain anxiety disorders, it can cause anxiety in some individuals as a side effect, particularly during or shortly after administration, and more common when used outside of a medical setting in various dosing. The experience varies greatly from person to person, and factors like dosage, individual sensitivity, and the setting of administration play significant roles.

The number of ketamine treatments required for anxiety varies depending on the individual’s response to the medication and the severity of their symptoms. We tailor the treatment plan to each person’s needs, assessing their response to therapy and adjusting accordingly. Ongoing maintenance sessions may be recommended based on the individual’s progress and clinical judgment.

Yes, in regions where it is legally permissible, anxiety is often recognized as a qualifying condition for obtaining a medical marijuana card. However, it’s important to note that while many people seek relief by using marijuana to manage anxiety symptoms, there can be challenges and varying effects. Many individuals experience increased anxiety or other side effects.