Yes! The good news is, anxiety is one of the most treatable mental health concerns out there. With the right tools, strategies, and support, most people experience noticeable relief and learn to manage their symptoms in a way that feels empowering.

Anxiety can feel different for everyone, but common experiences include persistent worry, racing thoughts, and a sense of unease or dread. Physically, you might notice a rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, muscle tension, or stomach discomfort. Some people describe feeling "on edge" or unable to relax, while others experience difficulty concentrating or sleeping. Anxiety can range from mild nervousness to overwhelming panic, and it often feels like your mind and body are stuck in a state of high alert, even when there's no immediate danger.

Anxiety is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. The process usually begins with a detailed discussion about your symptoms, how long they've lasted, and how they impact your daily life. Your provider may ask about your medical history, family history of mental health conditions, and any recent stressors or life changes. They'll often use standardized screening tools or questionnaires to assess the severity and type of anxiety you're experiencing. A diagnosis is made when your symptoms meet specific criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). It's important to note that your provider may also rule out other medical conditions that can mimic anxiety symptoms, such as thyroid issues or heart conditions, to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

Anxiety is commonly treated through a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and sometimes medication. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective approaches, helping you identify and change negative thought patterns that fuel anxiety. Other therapeutic methods, like Exposure Therapy or Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), can also be highly beneficial depending on your specific needs. In addition to therapy, your provider may recommend stress-management techniques such as mindfulness, breathing exercises, or regular physical activity. For some people, medication like SSRIs or anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms, especially when combined with therapy. There are a few psychiatrists’ offices that we work closely with, and we believe they offer top of the line care. Talk to one of our therapists for more information. Treatment is personalized to fit your unique situation, and many people find significant relief through a tailored approach that addresses both the mental and physical aspects of anxiety.

Anxiety can develop from a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Some people are naturally more prone to anxiety due to their brain chemistry or family history, meaning they may have inherited a tendency toward heightened stress responses. Life experiences also play a significant role. Traumatic events, chronic stress, major life changes, or even prolonged exposure to difficult circumstances can trigger or worsen anxiety over time. Additionally, learned behaviors from childhood, such as growing up in an environment where worry was common, can shape how you respond to stress as an adult. For many people, anxiety develops gradually, building up through repeated stressors or unresolved emotions, while for others it may appear suddenly following a specific event. Understanding the roots of your anxiety can be an important step in managing it effectively through therapy and self-care.

Anxiety can feel more intense in the morning due to a natural spike in cortisol, the body's stress hormone, which peaks shortly after waking. This is part of your body's normal wake-up process, but for people with anxiety, it can amplify feelings of worry or dread. Additionally, mornings often bring anticipation of the day ahead (deadlines, responsibilities, or uncertain situations) which can trigger anxious thoughts before you've even gotten out of bed. Low blood sugar after fasting overnight and the transition from sleep to wakefulness can also contribute to physical symptoms like restlessness or a racing heart. If you find mornings particularly difficult, grounding techniques like deep breathing, gentle movement, or a calming morning routine can help ease the transition and set a more balanced tone for your day.

Anxiety often intensifies at night because the day's distractions fade away, leaving your mind free to focus on worries and unresolved thoughts. In the quiet and stillness of nighttime, racing thoughts can feel louder and harder to escape. Additionally, fatigue can lower your ability to manage stress, making anxious feelings more overwhelming. Physical factors also play a role. Lying down can sometimes make symptoms like a racing heart or shallow breathing more noticeable. For many people, nighttime brings anticipation about the next day or rumination about what happened earlier, creating a cycle that makes it difficult to relax and fall asleep. Establishing a calming bedtime routine, practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, and limiting screen time before bed can help ease nighttime anxiety.

An anxiety attack is a period of intense fear or discomfort that builds gradually, often in response to stress or worry. Unlike a panic attack comes on suddenly and peaks within minutes, an anxiety attack tends to develop more slowly and can last for an extended period—sometimes hours or even days. During an anxiety attack, you might experience racing thoughts, excessive worry, restlessness, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, or trouble sleeping. Physical symptoms can include a rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, or feeling on edge. While the terms "anxiety attack" and "panic attack" are often used interchangeably, they're actually different experiences. Understanding the distinction can help you better recognize what you're going through and seek the right support. If you'd like to learn more about how these two differ, check out our guide on panic attack vs anxiety attack.