North Port’s Leading Anxiety Disorder Treatment Center

According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, text revision (DSM-5-TR), there are several types of anxiety disorders, including: 

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive and persistent worry or anxiety about various aspects of life, such as work, relationships, health, and everyday tasks. These feelings of worry are often difficult to control, occur most days, and persist for at least six months.  
• Panic disorder: Defined by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, panic disorder is characterized by sudden episodes of extreme fear accompanied by physical symptoms like chest pain, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, or a sense of impending danger. 
• Social anxiety disorder: Social anxiety disorder is characterized by an intense fear of social situations in which a person worries that they may be judged, embarrassed, or humiliated. This fear often leads the person to avoid social situations, which can negatively affect their career, their relationships, and other aspects of their daily life.  
• Separation anxiety disorder: This disorder involves heightened fear or distress when a person is separated from an attachment figure, such as a parent, partner, or caregiver. It is more common in children, but it can also occur in adults. 
• Substance/medication-induced anxiety disorder: People who struggle with this form of anxiety disorder experience symptoms that are triggered by either substance use or withdrawal. Substances such as alcohol, medications, and recreational drugs may cause these reactions either during or after a person’s use. 
• Specific phobias: People who have specific phobias experience irrational and excessive fear of certain objects, situations, or environments. Though these triggers are typically harmless, the person’s fear can feel so intense that it leads to avoidance and distress. 
• Agoraphobia: People who have agoraphobia suffer from fear or anxiety in certain situations, such as when they are using public transportation, in open or crowded spaces, or away from home. This fear can stem from concerns about being trapped, embarrassed, or unable to get help during a panic attack or other distressing event. 
• Anxiety disorder due to other medical conditions: This type of anxiety disorder results from an underlying physical health condition, such as a chronic illness. Medical conditions that can be linked to anxiety include respiratory disorders such as asthma and chronic pulmonary disease, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, chronic pain, irritable bowel syndrome, and rare tumors that produce certain fight-or-flight response hormones. In these cases, addressing the medical condition can often help people reduce their symptoms of anxiety. 
• Selective mutism: This disorder often affects children and can cause them to remain silent in certain social settings, such as at school, while they are able to speak freely in more comfortable environments, like at home. If it is left untreated, selective mutism can affect a person’s academic achievement, social development, and career opportunities.  
• Other specified anxiety disorders and unspecified anxiety disorders: These categories cover types of anxiety that don’t meet the diagnostic criteria for other anxiety disorders but still require attention and treatment.  

While each of these disorders can vary in severity and impact, people who receive a proper diagnosis and anxiety treatment can learn to effectively manage their symptoms, which can lead to an overall improvement to their quality of life. 

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but if it is persistent and overwhelming and interferes with a person’s daily life, it is considered an anxiety disorder. Understanding the signs and symptoms of anxiety disorders can help you determine when professional treatment may be necessary for you or a loved one.  

Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include:  

• Excessive worry: A defining feature of anxiety disorders is constant, uncontrollable worry, even about everyday matters or minor concerns. 
• Restlessness: A person who has an anxiety disorder may feel on edge or unable to relax, and this is often accompanied by fidgeting or difficulty sitting still. 
• Irritability: The heightened sensitivity and frustration a person may feel when they are struggling with an anxiety disorder can make managing their emotions or stress more challenging. 
• Difficulty concentrating: Anxiety often leads to racing thoughts or intrusive worries, which can make it hard for people to focus or complete tasks. 
• Muscle tension: Anxiety can cause physical discomfort, including tight muscles, clenched jaws, or a stiff neck. 
• Fatigue: Chronic anxiety is mentally and physically draining, which can leave people feeling tired even without physical exertion. 
• Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling or staying asleep, or waking up unrefreshed, is a common symptom of anxiety disorders. 
• Rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath: Symptoms like a racing heart, chest tightness, and breathlessness may occur, particularly during panic attacks. 
• Digestive problems: Anxiety can cause a person to have an upset stomach, nausea, or other gastrointestinal problems. 
• Avoidance: People who have anxiety may steer clear of situations, places, or activities that trigger their fears, which can potentially disrupt their daily lives and relationships. 
• Fidgeting or pacing: A person’s physical restlessness can manifest as repetitive movements or a need to stay active. 

If anxiety symptoms become overwhelming or begin to interfere with your ability to function at work, at school, or in your personal relationships, it’s important to reach out to a professional treatment center like North Port Behavioral Health as soon as possible. Anxiety disorders are treatable, and we can help you choose from a variety of treatment offerings to create a tailored care plan that works for you. 

The causes of anxiety disorders are not fully understood. However, research points to a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors that can contribute to their development. Potential causes and risk factors include: 

• Genetic predisposition: A family history of anxiety or other mental health concerns increases the likelihood that a person could struggle with an anxiety disorder themselves. 

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in a person’s neurotransmitters may contribute to heightened anxiety by affecting their mood regulation. 

• Gender: Women are statistically more likely than men to develop an anxiety disorder, potentially due to a variety of biological and social factors. 

• Trauma: A person who experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, such as abuse, an accident, or a natural disaster, is more likely to develop symptoms of an anxiety disorder. Early exposure to neglect, abuse, or other adverse childhood experiences can also increase a person’s chances of having an anxiety disorder later in life. 

• Ongoing stress: The buildup of stress during a person’s daily life, including work pressures or personal challenges, can lead to anxiety over time. 

• Stress from illness: Living with a chronic condition, such as heart disease, diabetes, or chronic pain, can cause an anxiety disorder or worsen a person’s existing symptoms. 

• Substance use or withdrawal: A person who is using or going through withdrawal from substances like alcohol, caffeine, recreational drugs, or certain medications may experience symptoms of anxiety. 

• Environmental factors: Chronic exposure to stress, such as financial instability, workplace pressure, or unstable relationships, may increase anxiety symptoms. 

• Cognitive and behavioral patterns: Persistent negative thinking, overanalyzing situations, or avoidance behaviors can reinforce symptoms of anxiety. 

• Lack of social support: Feelings of isolation or a weak support system can contribute to feelings of anxiety. 

Recognizing the signs of anxiety disorders and seeking professional care can be the first steps on a person’s path to healing. If anxiety is left untreated, it can significantly harm a person’s mental and physical health, as well as their relationships. However, with early intervention, it’s possible to reduce the long-term effects of anxiety and restore a sense of balance and well-being. 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, generalized anxiety disorder affects 6.8 million adults in the United States alone, which is about 3.1% of the overall population. However, only 43.2% of these people receive treatment for anxiety. Research indicates that women are twice as likely as men to experience symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.  

If you are struggling with an anxiety disorder, remember that you’re not alone. Reach out to our team at North Port Behavioral Health today to learn more about the benefits of personalized anxiety treatment and how we can help support you on your healing journey.  

Untreated anxiety may result in chronic physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems, muscle tension, and fatigue. Over time, these symptoms can contribute to more serious health conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system. Untreated anxiety can also impact a person’s mental health and can increase the risk for developing symptoms of other disorders, such as depression. People who have anxiety may experience heightened feelings of hopelessness, frustration, and irritability, which can create a cycle of negative thinking that can worsen symptoms. 

Sleep disturbances are another common effect of anxiety disorders. Chronic worry can disrupt a person’s sleep patterns, causing insomnia or poor-quality sleep. This can lead to constant fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and irritability, which can further impair a person’s daily functioning. In some cases, people may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with their symptoms. However, substance abuse can lead to addiction and other serious health complications and can worsen the symptoms of anxiety in the long run. 

Anxiety symptoms can also cause a person’s relationships to suffer. Constant worry, irritability, or avoidance behaviors may create misunderstandings or conflict with a person’s family members and friends. Over time, this can weaken a person’s social bonds and cause emotional distance or isolation. Anxiety can also interfere with a person’s work or academic performance, making it difficult for them to concentrate, meet deadlines, or fulfill their responsibilities. This may result in poor performance, absenteeism, and setbacks in reaching their career or educational goals. 

Another possible consequence of untreated anxiety is social withdrawal. Many people who have anxiety avoid situations or places that trigger their anxious feelings, which can lead to isolation and loneliness. In severe cases, anxiety may escalate to frequent panic attacks, which are intense episodes of fear accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart, chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness. These attacks can be debilitating and may cause people to fear future such episodes. 

Ultimately, an untreated anxiety disorder can lead to a diminished quality of life. It may prevent people from embracing opportunities, exploring new experiences, or enjoying daily activities due to persistent worry and fear. Because of this, seeking a diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible is crucial.  

If you or a loved one is struggling with an anxiety disorder, don’t hesitate to seek the help you need. When you are ready to reach out, the admissions advisers at our Florida anxiety disorder treatment center are here to discuss your treatment options and help you customize your unique path to healing.  

Located in North Port, Florida, North Port Behavioral Health provides a nurturing environment where patients can focus solely on improving their mental well-being. Our treatment center is designed to offer a peaceful, stress-free space for reflection and healing, away from the challenges of daily life. For people who are struggling with both an anxiety disorder and a co-occurring substance use disorder, we can provide comprehensive care that addresses both at the same time. 

At North Port Behavioral Health, we are committed to guiding you along every step of your path to healing. Your care journey with us will include: 

• A thorough evaluation: Each patient undergoes an in-depth assessment to help us understand their unique needs. The information we gather during a patient’s assessment helps us create a personalized treatment plan for them that addresses their immediate needs and supports their long-term healing. 
• Compassionate, expert care: Our skilled and empathetic team of professionals provides each of our patients with guidance, emotional support, and the tools they need to achieve lasting healing. We are here to empower our patients as they make meaningful changes in their lives. 
• A personalized treatment plan: We recognize that every person’s experience with anxiety is different. We create anxiety disorder treatment plans that are customized with each patient’s specific needs and goals in mind so that they can receive care that is relevant and effective. 
• Evidence-based therapies: Therapeutic modalities we incorporate include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing (MI). These evidence-based interventions can help patients who have anxiety disorders understand and manage their symptoms and build healthier coping strategies for the future.  
• Comprehensive aftercare support: We create detailed aftercare plans that include referrals and resources to help patients maintain their progress and continue their journey toward long-term well-being after they have left treatment. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, we are here to help. We know that making the decision to seek treatment can feel overwhelming, and we’re here to provide the support and guidance you need throughout this journey. At North Port Behavioral Health, we’ll walk beside you every step of the way.