The Importance in Learning how to Manage Anxiety

By Buffalo Medical Group | May 2 2018 | Doctor Tips

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting over 40 million adults age 18 and older, and yet only 36% of those suffering seek treatment. BMG Behavioral Health Specialist, Erin Ruston, LMHC, wants people to know that anxiety disorders are highly treatable, and there’s a wide variety of treatment options to help those suffering overcome this mental health issue.

The first and most important thing to know about treatment is for patients to understand there is no shame in seeking help for anxiety, or any other mental health issue. The second is that when it comes to anxiety, there’s no one right way to treat it, because ever person, and their anxiety, is different. Because of this, Erin Ruston is sharing different treatment methods for anxiety that she has seen incredible success with in her patients.

Explore your treatment options:

• One-on-one Therapy: One-on-one therapy provides you the opportunity to work on an individual basis with a therapist, or mental health professional. Sessions typically last an hour, during which the therapist will listen and understand your concerns and anxiety difficulties, and will tailor goals, exercises and coping skills based on your needs.
• Support Groups: Participating in a support group provides individuals to hear other experiences, coping mechanisms, and successes, to help encourage and inspire them to continue working to manage their anxiety, and feel a sense of community and support.
• Meditation: According to a small new study, a single 60 minute session of meditation can lower your anxiety levels, and help them stay lowered one week after the meditation session. Meditation forces individuals to focus on breathing and the awareness of one’s thoughts, and has a calming and relaxing effect.
• Exercise: Not only is exercising good for your physical health, but it’s good for your mental health as well. Exercise has been known to reduce stress levels, and regular symptoms of anxiety.

 

Why it’s important to treat anxiety:

Anxiety can be debilitating to those suffering. It can interfere with your job, relationships, and everyday tasks. Anxiety can also have negative effects on your physical health, including high blood pressure, respiratory disorders and even cardiovascular disease, so it’s important to take anxiety, and its treatment, seriously.

 

Contact us:

If you’re a Primary Care Patient of Buffalo Medical Group, and are interested in learning more about anxiety treatment options, please call Erin Ruston, LMHC at 716.656.4813, or learn more about our behavioral health services today.