Common signs of an anxiety disorder
- Worry that is hard to switch off, often about many things at once
- Feeling restless, on edge or easily tired
- Trouble concentrating or falling asleep
- Muscle tension, a racing heart, or stomach upset
- Sudden waves of intense fear with physical symptoms, known as panic attacks
- Avoiding places, people or situations because of fear
Types of anxiety we treat
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety
- Specific phobias
- Separation anxiety in children
- Health anxiety
How we help
A careful evaluation
We check for medical causes that mimic anxiety, such as thyroid problems, caffeine, or side effects of other medicines.
Medication when it helps
Many first-choice anxiety medicines are not habit-forming. We usually start low and adjust slowly.
Skills that work
Therapy techniques to calm the body, question anxious thoughts, and gradually face what you avoid.
Progress you can see
A short questionnaire called the GAD-7 at each visit shows whether treatment is working.
What to expect
- Many people start to feel better within weeks to a few months of starting treatment, though everyone is different.
- Follow-up visits are shorter than the first visit and can often be done by video.
Common questions
Will I have to take medication for anxiety?
No. Medication is one option. Therapy alone works well for many people, and some use both. We explain the choices and you decide.
Are anxiety medicines addictive?
Some, such as benzodiazepines, can lead to dependence, so they are used cautiously and usually short term. Many first-choice treatments, such as SSRIs, are not habit-forming.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Every person is different, and your treatment plan is decided with your clinician.