Healing the Core of Addiction Anxiety

Everyone feels anxious sometimes. However, some people experience persistent severe anxiety, affecting their ability to function. Anxiety-related mental health disorders are some of the most common and affect millions of people a year. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “An estimated 31.1% of U.S. adults experience any anxiety disorder at some time in their lives.” Exclusive Hawaii Rehab uses psychotherapy, peer support, alternative holistic therapies, and other treatment modalities to address the root cause of anxiety and help clients heal from anxiety-related mental health disorders. The clinicians are certified to treat primary and secondary mental health issues.

What Is Clinical Anxiety?

Clinical anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and intrusive thoughts. Anxiety is diagnosed when ongoing symptoms affect a person’s ability to function and cause significant emotional distress. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “For a person with an anxiety disorder, the anxiety does not go away and can get worse over time.” In addition, “The symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork, and relationships.”

Anxiety has many potential causes, including:

• Trauma
• Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
• Panic disorders
• Substance use disorder (SUD)
• Misused herbal medications
• Prescription medications

Exclusive Hawaii Rehab uses comprehensive assessments and screening tools to ensure clients receive an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Clients with anxiety often experience chronic stress and may have one or more co-occurring mental health disorders. The clinical team simultaneously addresses all active and underlying issues using evidence-based methods and personalized care.

Common Anxiety Disorders

The symptoms of anxiety disorders exist along a spectrum, and they look different for everyone. Some people may have a stronger support system or better coping skills that reduce the effects of anxiety, while others may struggle to function day-to-day. A clinical assessment and diagnosis are necessary to narrow down the type of anxiety disorder and ensure clinicians provide the best treatment.

Multiple disorders feature anxiety as a prominent symptom, including:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Social anxiety disorder
• Specific phobias, including agoraphobia
• Panic disorder
• Separation anxiety disorder

To meet the criteria for anxiety disorders, the symptoms must be persistent and cause significant emotional distress.

Potential Health Side Effects

Every anxiety disorder manifests in a distinctive way. In many cases, anxiety affects all areas of a person’s life and makes it difficult for them to function.

Although short-term side effects are different for everyone, most anxiety disorders have overlapping long-term health side effects, including:

• Digestive issues, including frequent nausea and stomach discomfort
• Headaches and migraines
• Muscle weakness, trembling, and body aches
• General fatigue due to lack of quality sleep
• Loss of energy
• Increased risk of heart disease

The health side effects build up over time. Many people experience multiple health complications if their anxiety remains untreated for an extended period. Early diagnosis and treatment provide the best outcomes and reduce the risk of developing SUD, additional mental health disorders, and physical health issues.

Warning Signs and Symptoms

Some people may not know if their anxiety is normal or a sign of a potential mental health disorder. A few warning signs and symptoms of anxiety-related disorders include:

• Racing thoughts
• Self-isolating behaviors
• Feeling frequently on edge and nervous
• Restless energy
• Increased heart rate
• Difficulty concentrating
• Avoiding stressful situations

Many people with anxiety-related disorders have panic attacks. Often, panic attacks are caused by significant life stressors or a combination of stressors. People experiencing an attack report sudden extreme fear, dread, helplessness, and hopelessness. The warning signs and symptoms of anxiety may affect a person’s relationships and ability to complete basic tasks of daily living.

Anxiety and Co-Occurring Disorders

Clinical anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues, and it frequently co-occurs with other disorders. Some common co-occurring disorders include:

• Depression and other mental health disorders
• SUD
• Disordered eating
• Chronic pain

According to MedlinePlus, the risk factors for developing anxiety and co-occurring conditions vary considerably depending on the disorders. “For example, GAD and phobias are more common in women, but social anxiety affects men and women equally.” Some people may have multiple co-occurring disorders, increasing their anxiety symptoms.

Treatment Options at Exclusive Hawaii Rehab

Studies have shown that “Chronic anxiety treatment consists of psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, or a combination of both.” Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective forms of psychotherapy for treating anxiety-related mental health disorders. Exclusive Hawaii Rehab uses a whole-person approach to care to address core issues causing anxiety.

The clinical team uses the following treatments and services to help clients heal and manage their anxiety:

• Naturopathic medicine
• Nutritional therapy
• Nature immersion
• Skill development
• Psychotherapy
• Experiential therapies
• Individual and group therapy
• Support groups
• Medication management
• Aftercare planning
• Alumni services

A client’s home life often determines how well they continue managing their anxiety after transitioning out of structured treatment. According to NIMH, “Researchers are finding that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the risk of developing an anxiety disorder.” Stress is a leading cause of anxiety-related mental health disorders. The clinical team uses natural medicines, peer support, and evidence-based treatments to help clients reduce stress and gain the skills they need to build a healthier future. Exclusive Hawaii Rehab also offers alumni services to ensure individuals and families continue to receive support after transitioning out of treatment.