10 Essential Facts About Anxiety Disorders | Elite Therapeutic Services

Anxiety Disorders: 10 Facts Everyone Should Know

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people in the U.S. While occasional anxiety is a normal response to stress, anxiety disorders can be overwhelming and interfere with daily life. At Elite Therapeutic Services, our team of licensed therapists in Stony Brook, New York, provides specialized online therapy and telehealth counseling services to help individuals manage anxiety effectively.

Here are 10 key facts that everyone should know about anxiety disorders:

1. Anxiety Disorders Are the Most Common Mental Health Condition

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), anxiety disorders affect approximately 40 million adults in the U.S. each year. Despite being highly treatable, only about 36% of those struggling seek professional help.

2. Anxiety Can Manifest in Many Different Forms

Anxiety disorders are not one-size-fits-all. The most common types include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Chronic worry about everyday situations.
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social interactions.
• Panic Disorder: Sudden episodes of extreme fear (panic attacks).
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Intrusive thoughts and compulsions.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Anxiety following a traumatic event.

3. Anxiety Can Cause Physical Symptoms

Anxiety doesn’t just affect your mind—it also impacts your body. Common physical symptoms include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness
• Stomach issues
• Muscle tension

At Elite Therapeutic Services, we use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Mindfulness Therapy to help clients manage both mental and physical symptoms.

4. Anxiety Is Not Just “Overthinking”

Many people mistakenly believe that anxiety is simply excessive worrying. In reality, anxiety is a complex mental health condition influenced by brain chemistry, genetics, and life experiences. Dismissing it as “just stress” can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need.

5. Therapy Can Be Highly Effective for Treating Anxiety

Therapy is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely recognized as the gold standard, helping individuals identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping strategies.

At Elite Therapeutic Services, we offer individual therapy, stress management therapy, and EMDR therapy for those dealing with anxiety and past trauma.

6. Anxiety Disorders Can Be Triggered by Life Events

Stressful life experiences—such as job loss, relationship problems, trauma, or major transitions—can contribute to the development of an anxiety disorder. If left untreated, anxiety can significantly impact personal and professional life.

Our therapists specialize in therapy for work stress, relationship issues, and high-functioning anxiety, providing personalized treatment plans to help clients regain control.

7. Lifestyle Changes Can Help Reduce Anxiety Symptoms

While therapy and, in some cases, medication are key treatments, lifestyle changes can also play a role in managing anxiety:

• Regular exercise
• A balanced diet
• Adequate sleep
• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Our telehealth therapists in New York incorporate Mindfulness Therapy into treatment plans to help clients build long-term coping strategies.

8. Anxiety Can Affect Anyone—Regardless of Age or Background

Anxiety disorders can affect children, adolescents, and adults. Many people assume that only adults experience significant anxiety, but research shows that anxiety disorders are the most common mental health issue in children and teens.

At Elite Therapeutic Services, we offer child therapy and adolescent counseling to help young clients develop emotional resilience and coping skills.

9. Anxiety and Depression Often Occur Together

Many individuals struggling with anxiety disorders also experience symptoms of depression. Research suggests that nearly 50% of people diagnosed with depression also have an anxiety disorder.

Our therapists provide therapy for anxiety and depression, offering comprehensive care tailored to individual needs.

10. Seeking Help for Anxiety Is a Sign of Strength, Not Weakness

Many people hesitate to seek therapy due to stigma or fear of being judged. However, reaching out for support is one of the strongest steps you can take toward improving your mental well-being.

At Elite Therapeutic Services, we make it easy to access expert care with online therapy and telehealth sessions available to clients across New York State, including Stony Brook, Suffolk County, Nassau County, and Queens.

Take the First Step Toward Managing Anxiety

If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, professional help is available. At Elite Therapeutic Services, our team of licensed therapists provides compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your unique needs.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your journey toward better mental health.

• Serving clients across New York State with telehealth therapy
• Accepting major insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, BlueCross BlueShield, and United Healthcare
• Convenient online sessions from the comfort of your home

Schedule a Consultation Now

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