Anxiety Panic Disorder
I often experience anxiety or negative thoughts, and whenever these thoughts arise, I feel chest tightness and headaches.
I've noticed that the more I try to counter these thoughts with positive thinking, the more panic I feel in my body.
This happens to me constantly throughout the day.
I've been exercising and practicing diaphragmatic breathing for 30 minutes daily, but it hasn't helped.
Could this be due to a deficiency in serotonin or dopamine? Additionally, if I have anxiety thoughts accompanied by tension responses, can I try to avoid thinking about them? Because thinking about them only makes my body more tense.
Also, aside from psychological therapy, can taking serotonin medications help reduce the overactivity of my autonomic nervous system?
Xiao Bai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/19
Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, Xiao Bai: If you are unable to manage your anxiety on your own, it is indeed necessary to seek medical attention.
In fact, certain physical issues, such as thyroid dysfunction, can also lead to intolerable anxiety responses.
Whether medication is needed should be discussed with a psychiatrist, who can make a differential diagnosis and decide together with you.
Reply Date: 2017/12/19
More Info
Understanding anxiety and panic disorders is crucial for effective management and treatment. Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions characterized by excessive fear or worry, which can manifest both psychologically and physiologically. Common symptoms include persistent feelings of dread, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms such as chest tightness, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues. In your case, the experience of chest tightness and headaches during episodes of anxiety is not uncommon and can be distressing.
When it comes to treatment options, a multifaceted approach is often the most effective. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recommended psychological treatment that helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors. This therapy can be particularly beneficial for those who find that trying to replace negative thoughts with positive ones only heightens their anxiety. Instead of forcing positive thoughts, CBT encourages individuals to acknowledge their feelings and gradually work through them, which can lead to a more manageable emotional state.
In addition to therapy, medication can also play a significant role in managing anxiety disorders. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly prescribed to help regulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and improve mood. While you mentioned concerns about serotonin or dopamine deficiencies, it's essential to understand that anxiety can arise from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, rather than solely from neurotransmitter imbalances.
Regarding your question about whether you can simply ignore anxious thoughts, it's important to recognize that avoidance can sometimes exacerbate anxiety. Instead of trying to suppress these thoughts, which can lead to increased tension, consider practicing mindfulness techniques. Mindfulness encourages individuals to observe their thoughts without judgment, allowing them to pass without engaging with them. This approach can help reduce the intensity of the physical response associated with anxiety.
As for your concerns about the autonomic nervous system's overactivity, medications like SSRIs can indeed help modulate the body's stress response over time. However, it's crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage for your specific needs. They can monitor your progress and make adjustments as necessary.
In summary, managing anxiety and panic disorders involves a combination of psychological therapies, medication, and lifestyle changes. While physical activities like exercise and breathing techniques are beneficial, they may not be sufficient on their own for everyone. It's essential to seek professional guidance to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique situation. Remember, recovery is a journey, and with the right support and strategies, it is possible to regain control over your thoughts and feelings.
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