When worrying gets worse - help is available

Everyone worries sometimes. But did you know that excessive worrying may be a symptom of an anxiety disorder? Anxiety disorders are among the most common behavioral health illnesses in the United States, affecting more than 18 million adults. In addition to affecting your mental health and well-being, anxiety disorders can and often do occur with physical illnesses, including, but not limited to, heart disease, asthma, and diabetes. 

The good news is that help is available and anxiety can be successfully treated. For mild cases, psychotherapy or “talk” therapy can be effective. People with moderate or severe anxiety often benefit from antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications. A combination of medication and psychotherapy can also be useful.

If you think you might have an anxiety disorder, talk to your doctor or visit the Anxiety Disorders Association of America website at www.adaa.org. This website contains information on different types of anxiety disorders and has questions you can answer to see if anxiety is a problem for you. If you would like a behavioral health referral, call 1-888-251-0083. TTY users can call 1-877-877-3580. Licensed behavioral health clinicians are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.