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How Do I Talk To My Primary Care Doctor About Anxiety?
Did you know that one out of every five adults in the United States has an anxiety disorder? In fact, it might be surprising to some that even a few high-profile celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey, Emma Stone, and Stephen Colbert have openly shared their struggles with anxiety.
However, although anxiety is highly treatable less than 39.6% of individuals struggling with anxiety seek and receive treatment. If you think you might be wrestling with anxiety, rather than trying to face it on your own, reach out to your primary care doctor for help.
What is Anxiety Disorder?
Everyone experiences some level of anxiety in the ordinary course of life. When an individual’s anxiety becomes so high that it becomes disabling and affects their day-to-day life, it becomes categorized as an anxiety disorder.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder – Persistent and excessive worry that interferes with daily activities
- Panic disorder – Recurring panic attacks that cause a combination of physical and psychological distress
- Various phobias – An extreme and persistent fear of a particular object, situation, or activity
- Social anxiety disorder – Significant anxiety and discomfort associated with social interaction
- Separation anxiety disorder – Excessive fear or anxiety regarding separation from a particular person or group of people for whom the individual has strong feelings of attachment
Common Anxiety Symptoms
Frequent signs and symptoms of anxiety include:
- Feeling nervous or restless
- Feeling a sense of panic or doom
- Rapid heart rate
- Instances of hyperventilation
- Sweating
- Trembling
- Feeling tired
- Trouble concentrating
- Insomnia
- Experiencing gastrointestinal issues
Tips For Talking to Your Primary Care Doctor About Anxiety
Preparing For Your Appointment
Create a list of your symptoms and when they began. Specify any patterns you have noticed, such as events or times of the day when your symptoms are worse.
Notate any significant stresses in your life, as well as any recent traumas. Also, be prepared to share with your physician any stimulants you consume, such as coffee, alcohol, sugar, or tobacco, including the estimated daily amounts.
During Your Doctor Visit
Take a proactive role in managing your health. Ask questions about your provider’s treatment approach, like the ones listed below.
How is my type of anxiety typically treated?
Will behavioral therapy help?
Are there medications that might minimize my symptoms?
How long does treatment typically last?
Do you have any printed literature or online resources to help me learn more about my anxiety disorder?
It is best to write down what your doctor says during the appointment in case you forget it later. At the end of your visit, your doctor will go over their recommended next steps.
After Your Appointment
After your visit, it is critical that you follow through with your prescribed treatment, which may also include a referral to a specialist. If your doctor has included medication as part of your treatment plan, be sure to take all medicine as directed.
Your physician will want to see you again in a few weeks to make any necessary treatment plan adjustments. Even if you find yourself wanting to retreat from the world, it is vital that you schedule and attend any specified follow-up visits. If you feel like you are struggling, consider asking a family member or friend to go to the follow-up appointment with you.
Try and remember that the management of anxiety is ongoing. Be patient with yourself and your doctor. It can take time to find the most effective treatment solution for you.
Partnering With Your Primary Care Provider to Treat Anxiety
Most individuals think to visit their primary care provider when they feel sick or for their annual wellness visit. However, primary care providers can also help with mental health issues. It is essential to make your primary care provider aware of your mental health concerns because there is a well-recognized connection between physical and psychological health.
Physicians typically treat anxiety disorders with behavioral health support, medicine, or a combination of both.
If medication is an option, your doctor will review your medical history and partner with you to decide what is the most appropriate type of prescription for you. Be sure to ask about any potential side effects.
Behavior therapy is another effective tool for managing anxiety. Behavior therapy may include counseling to learn how to cope effectively with stress or even lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise modifications. It may also include recognizing and avoiding specific types of anxiety triggers when possible.
Yoga, meditation, and mindful breathing are also helpful tools for coping with anxiety.
Primary Physician Who Treats Anxiety Near Me-Littleton, CO
Our goal at Colorado Primary Healthcare is to give our patients a convenient solution for all their medical needs. We provide a wide range of medical services for people of all ages. We serve patients in the Greater Denver area, including Littleton, Ken Caryl, Columbine, Bow Mar, Englewood, Southglenn, Greenwood Village, Castlewood, and Northridge.
If you are searching for a primary care physician to treat your anxiety in the Greater Denver area, we invite you to book an appointment using our online form or by calling our office at (303) 703-8583.
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