It’s normal to experience anxiety every so often, but persistent and excessive fear or worry about nonthreatening situations may be a sign of an anxiety disorder. Clinical psychologist Michael Messina, PsyD, treats children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety disorders at his practice in Southlake, Texas. If anxiety interferes with your daily activities, call or book an appointment online today.
Anxiety is a feeling of fear or distress about a real or perceived threat. Everyone experiences occasional anxiety.
A person’s brain contains a built-in response to danger called the fight-or-flight mechanism. This response can save your life when faced with a threatening situation, like a fire, but intense and uncontrollable worry about everyday activities can negatively affect your health and well-being.
Dr. Messina treats all types of anxiety disorders, including:
If anxiety affects performance at school or work or interferes with relationships, Dr. Messina can help.
Signs and symptoms of anxiety vary in type and severity, but may include:
You may also go out of your way to avoid situations or events that trigger anxiety, like flying on an airplane or speaking in public.
Anxiety is a complex condition with many possible causes. Common causes of anxiety include:
Avoiding places, people, or situations that trigger anxiety can also worsen your anxiety symptoms.
Common treatments for anxiety include medications and psychotherapy. Many people benefit from a combination of both. You can discuss medication options with your psychiatrist or primary care physician.
Dr. Messina uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help children, adolescents, and adults manage their anxiety.
CBT is a research-based approach that focuses on changing unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. When you learn to change your thoughts, the result is an improvement in mood and daily functioning.
To learn how you or your child can control anxiety and lead a happy, meaningful life, call the office of Dr. Michael Messina or book an appointment online today.
