Anxiety Specialist
OC-Psychiatrist, Inc.
Andrew D Morrow, M.D.
Psychiatrist located in Mission Viejo, CA
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent mental health issues in the United States, affecting around 40 million American adults every year. If you feel overwhelmed by worry and negative thoughts, contact Andrew Morrow, MD, at OC-Psychiatrist, Inc. in Mission Viejo, California. Dr. Morrow diagnoses anxiety and provides personalized treatment plans to relieve your symptoms and restore your quality of life. Call OC-Psychiatrist, Inc. today or schedule a consultation online.
Anxiety Q & A
What is anxiety?
Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions that cause intrusive, distressing, persistent worries and negative thoughts and feelings. Anxious feelings often lead to behaviors that can reduce your quality of life.
There are several types of anxiety disorders characterized by different kinds of fears and reactions.
Generalized anxiety disorder is the most common type. It causes you to feel nervous and fearful about daily activities and routine chores, like grocery shopping, as well as issues such as health and work responsibilities.
Other types of anxiety disorders include panic disorder, social anxiety, separation anxiety, and specific phobias.
What are typical anxiety symptoms?
Anxiety causes mental and physical symptoms. Depending on the type and severity of your condition, you might experience:
- Intense feelings of apprehension or dread
- Feeling jumpy or easily startled
- Inability to control worries or self-soothe
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Reduced concentration and memory
- Rapid heartbeat
- Rapid breathing
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Avoidance behaviors
- Headaches and gastrointestinal symptoms
Some patients have panic attacks. During a panic attack, you experience a sudden onset of intense anxiety or terror, feelings of impending doom, shortness of breath, and chest pain. You may have repeated panic attacks and eventually begin to worry about having an attack.
When should I talk to a psychiatrist about anxiety?
Anxious feelings are part of your ability to recognize danger and take action to stay safe. Everyone worries occasionally. However, if you have persistent anxious or nervous feelings that interfere with your life or health, it’s time to get help.
Dr. Morrow provides thorough assessments to evaluate your condition and identify the best therapies to help you recover.
How is anxiety treated?
Dr. Morrow offers comprehensive, personalized treatment programs for anxiety. He provides more than a prescription. While medication can often reduce negative thoughts and persistent worries, Dr. Morrow may also incorporate other therapies into your plan.
You might benefit from psychotherapy sessions to explore your thoughts and worries and learn techniques to recognize your triggers and how to take action before your fears start.
Dr. Morrow might recommend changes to your diet, exercise habits, and sleep. He may recommend a natural alternative supplement, meditation, tai chi, or other stress management activities in addition to medication and psychotherapy.
You don’t have to live with anxiety. Call OC-Psychiatrist, Inc. today or make an appointment online for expert, patient-focused care.