The quick answer is YES. Most people experience Anxiety at some point in their life. Anxiety that occurs occasionally and does not affect your daily life can be managed with general coping mechanisms. Anxiety disorders are a real thing. The Term “anxiety disorder” refers to specific psychiatric disorders that involve extreme fear or worry, and includes generalized anxiety disorders, panic attacks, social anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, separation anxiety, and specific phobias.

Weighted Blankets….

The new hot item on the market is the weighted blanket. These blankets are used as a coping mechanism for anxiety. I was skeptical at first, however my nine year old has separation anxiety at night. A 7 pound blanket did the trick. She explains it as her blanket is giving her a hug. If you are planning on purchasing a weighted blanket, pay close attention to the weight of the blanket you are purchasing, not everyone can handle 30 pounds. They each come with weight guidelines.

Anxiety Disorders…

Anxiety disorders are a real thing. The term “anxiety disorder” refers to specific psychiatric disorders that involve extreme fear or worry, and includes generalized anxiety disorders, panic attacks, social anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, separation anxiety, and specific phobias.

Can Vacations really bring on Anxiety???

Anxiety can strike at any time. Most people do not realize but going on vacation can cause major stress with people. Having to book the trip, travel, expenses and a change in routine can increase anxiety in most people. We sometimes say I need a vacation from my vacation. This is because vacations can be more stressful than relaxing.

What are Anxiety disorders?

It’s normal to feel anxious about moving to a new place, starting a new job, or taking a test. This type of anxiety is unpleasant, but it may motivate you to work harder and to do a better job. Ordinary anxiety is a feeling that comes and goes, but does not interfere with your everyday life.

Anxiety disorders are the most common form of emotional disorder and in the case of an anxiety disorder, the feeling of fear may be with you all the time. It is intense and sometimes debilitating. This type of anxiety may cause you to stop doing the things you enjoy. In extreme cases, it may prevent you from entering an elevator, crossing the street, driving over a bridge, or even leaving your home.

If left untreated, the anxiety will continue to get worse. Anxiety does not have boundaries it can affect anyone and everyone. Many people have become great at hiding their anxiety. If you feel you are experiencing anxiety that is impacting you daily life contact a therapist in your area. 360 Counseling in Clearwater, Florida can help you work through events that are causing major stress.

Be the best version of yourself,

Would you see a doctor if you were sick?

It is socially acceptable to see a physician if you are feeling ill. Why is it so passe to seek help from a mental health professional if you are not feeling yourself emotionally? Our emotions sometimes need help, if you feel any of the below warning signs psychotherapy can help get you back to feeling more like your true self.

Warning Signs…

Change of personality not acting like yourself or feeling like yourself. Uncharacteristic anxiety, anger, moodiness, withdraw, isolation, lack of self-care and/or risky behaviors. Sense of hopelessness or feeling overwhelmed.

Why Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy helps client recognizes positive and negative feelings and what causes or triggers situations that make them feel good, anxious or depressed. Therapy helps clients cope with difficulties in a positive safe environment. Therapy can be brief depending on the resiliency of the client.

What does Psychotherapy help with?

Therapy can help with a diverse range of problems including but not limited too depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, family issues and relationship problems. Therapy is designed to help anyone feeling overwhelmed by daily problems and those who have the inability to cope independently.

Seeking Treatment…

Look in your community for a psychotherapist who can assist you in becoming the best version of yourself. Therapy is designed to help you uncover coping techniques that work best for your personality and ones that have worked for you in the past. Together it is possible to build a positive cohesive relationship that will lead to positive change.

Remember seeking help from a therapist is no different than seeing a doctor for a broken arm. You don’t have to carry the burden of feeling unlike yourself. Your mental health has to become a priority in your life. Society needs to add mental health treatment to our normal vocabulary when talking about self-care.

Be the best version of yourself,

Cathi Long is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern at 360 Counseling, LLC. Cathi specializes in therapy for individuals, couples and families.