Anxiety Disorders

Everyone feels anxious or has anxiety at some point in their life. You may feel anxious if you have to give a big presentation at your job, before taking a test or even riding a rollercoaster. It is when this anxiety increases in strength, duration or affects your relationships, work or daily living that it may be an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders are very common. In fact, 18% of all adults living in the United States have an anxiety disorder. That is over 40 million people. There are a number of different types of anxiety disorders. Phobias (an extreme or irrational fear of a situation, object, person or place), generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder are the most common types.

Like other mental health conditions, anxiety disorders can be co-occurring, that is, happening at the same time as another condition like a substance use disorder or mood disorder (such as depression).

The signs and symptoms of anxiety disorders can vary depending on the specific type. However, anxiety disorders have one common thread: an excessive and ongoing worry or fear in a situation that is not threatening.

If this sounds like you or a loved one, help is available. BayCare Behavioral Health provides a full range of resources and comprehensive treatment options, including cognitive behavioral therapy, for all types of anxiety disorders.

Resources and treatment options include:

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of anxiety disorders can be physical, behavioral or psychological. They may vary depending on the specific type of anxiety disorder. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to a behavioral health professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

A few of the more common signs and symptoms of anxiety disorders include, but are not limited to:

  • Physical symptoms
    • Fast heartbeat or chest pain
    • Trouble breathing
    • Dizziness, headache or tingling in fingers or toes
    • Nausea or dry mouth
    • Body aches or pains
    • Restlessness, tremors or shaking
  • Behavioral symptoms
    • Avoidance of certain situations
    • Fear of situations, objects, persons or places
    • Obsessive or compulsive behavior
  • Psychological symptoms
    • Excessive or ongoing worry or fear
    • Trouble concentrating or remembering
    • Trouble falling or staying asleep
    • Agitation or irritability

BayCare Behavioral Health is here to assist people struggling with anxiety disorders. We offer a variety of resources to help you and your loved ones get help when you need it:

  • If you need immediate crisis assistance, call 911.
  • If you are thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, dial (800) 273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention LIfeline 24/7.
  • If you have questions related to insurance or verification of benefits for behavioral health care, call our registration center Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm at (877) 850-9613.
  • For local health and human services resources and information outside of our registration center hours, call 211 to reach Tampa Bay Cares for free, confidential help.
  • Still unsure of where to begin, let our guide help you navigate the process.
  • To schedule an appointment with a behavioral health professional, call our registration center Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm at (877) 850-9613.