Our anxiety does not come from thinking about the future, but from wanting to control it.
Kahlil Gibran
Anxiety Therapy: An Integrated Approach
Addressing Excessive Worry: Anxiety Therapy Interventions
When worry and anxiety become excessive and unmanageable, they can significantly impact your quality of life. Fortunately, there are therapeutic interventions for anxiety that are supported by scientific research. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are two of the most widely recognized, evidence-based approaches in anxiety therapy.
Natural Worry and Anxiety
Our Body’s Response to Potential Threats
We all experience worry and anxiety. These are natural responses to things we care about but cannot directly influence, such as awaiting a medical test result. Such worry can even be beneficial, preparing us for potential challenges, like an upcoming presentation at work.
The Role of Anxiety in Everyday Life
Anxiety serves a vital purpose by keeping us alert to potential threats and readying us for response. It heightens our focus, energy, and anticipation, aiding us in the face of danger.
Anxiety Disorders
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
For some, worry evolves into a persistent and uncontrollable state, known as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). GAD is characterized by excessive worry about uncertainties in the future, anticipating negative outcomes, and mentally rehearsing various solutions. It often leads to physical tension, restlessness, agitation, and difficulty concentrating, significantly impacting both mental and physical well-being.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder, another type of anxiety disorder, is defined by the fear of social scrutiny and judgment. For individuals with social anxiety, engaging in social activities often triggers feelings of dread. This apprehension is rooted in the fear of potential awkward, embarrassing, or humiliating interactions in the presence of others. As a result, social withdrawal and limitations on daily activities commonly occur.
Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder is characterized by an overwhelming fear of experiencing another panic attack and the intense distress it brings. It involves persistent worry about having future attacks, which often leads to avoidance behaviors that interfere with daily life.
Evidence-Based Approaches in Anxiety Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is an evidence-based approach for treating anxiety disorders. It emphasizes understanding the complex relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. CBT equips individuals with the skills to identify and challenge anxious thoughts, facilitating their replacement with more realistic alternatives. This process helps alleviate anxiety symptoms, enhancing one’s overall sense of well-being. Learn more about CBT
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT is another evidence-based therapeutic approach utilized in anxiety therapy. This method encourages individuals to observe and accept their anxious thoughts and feelings without judgment or avoidance. A major focus of ACT is on aligning actions with your personal values and goals, while also fostering psychological flexibility and resilience. Learn more about ACT
Anxiety Therapy at Mile High Psychology
At Mile High Psychology, we offer a multi-faceted approach to anxiety therapy, integrating both CBT and ACT techniques. Our focus is on providing tailored strategies to help you manage anxiety more effectively.
If you or a loved one are dealing with anxiety, we’re here to assist. Contact us today to take the first step toward addressing anxiety and cultivating a more manageable life.