How Anxiety Treatment Works: What to Expect

Worry is part of life. When it is hard to control, lasts for months and gets in the way of work, sleep or relationships, it may be an anxiety disorder, and it can be treated. About a third of U.S. adolescents and adults experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

How anxiety is evaluated

A provider will ask when your symptoms started, how often they happen and how they affect your life. A physical exam can help rule out an unrelated physical cause. For generalized anxiety disorder, NIMH says a person finds it difficult to control worry on most days for at least 6 months, along with other symptoms such as feeling restless or on edge, or fatigue.

What treatment usually involves

NIMH says treatment for generalized anxiety disorder typically involves psychotherapy, medication, or both.

• Therapy. NIMH calls cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) the "gold standard" choice of psychotherapy, and says it has been well studied. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) uses strategies such as mindfulness and goal setting.
• Medication. Some people also take medication as part of their plan. It may take several weeks to start working. Your provider will talk through the options, benefits and side effects with you.
• Daily habits. Exercise, mindfulness and meditation can also ease anxiety, NIMH says. They work alongside care from a provider rather than replacing it.
• Support groups. Some people benefit from a self-help or support group. Advice from other members does not replace your provider's recommendations.

How long it takes

Be patient with the process. NIMH says finding the best treatment may take trial and error, and that therapy and medication can take some time to work. Tell your provider what is and isn't helping, so your plan can change with you.

What to expect at Hope Behavioral Medicine

Your first visit is a comprehensive evaluation, 45 to 60 minutes with a board-certified provider. You can be seen in person in West Ashley or by secure video anywhere in South Carolina. If you have a primary care provider, we can share your treatment plan with them, with your permission. We do not provide primary care, so your primary care provider stays your primary care provider. Request an appointment.

If you are having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988. In an emergency, call 911.

Sources: NIMH, Generalized Anxiety Disorder: When Worry Gets Out of Control; NIMH, Anxiety Disorders.

This article is general information, not medical advice, and does not create a patient–provider relationship. Every situation is different, so see a provider who can evaluate yours and develop a plan of care. Any medication discussed here may not be right for you: the right choice depends on your diagnoses, other health conditions and current medicines, so take medication only as directed by the provider managing your care. If you are ever in doubt about an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.