Anxiety can feel like a constant hum in the background of your life—sometimes low and nagging, other times roaring so loudly it drowns everything else out. Whether you’re a teen struggling to keep up at school, a parent juggling responsibilities, or someone quietly battling inner fears, you’re not alone. Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health challenges today—and the good news is, they’re also treatable.
At Keystone Counseling Healthcare, we support individuals, couples, and families across who are living with anxiety-related conditions—from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) to panic attacks, social phobia, PTSD, OCD, and beyond. This guide offers clarity, encouragement, and evidence-based strategies to help you or someone you love take the first step toward healing.
Our mission is to help individuals navigate these conditions and find paths to wellness and fulfillment.
Everyone worries; it’s part of being human. But when anxiety starts to control your decisions, impact your sleep, or affect your daily functioning, it may be something more.
An anxiety disorder isn’t just feeling nervous before a test or presentation. It involves persistent and excessive fear or worry that lasts six months or longer and disrupts everyday life. Common forms include:
Your brain is always on high alert, even when there’s no real threat.
Anxiety looks different for everyone. Let’s break down the major types:
People with GAD often feel anxious about everyday things—finances, health, relationships—with no apparent trigger. Symptoms include restlessness, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. GAD typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood.
Panic attacks are sudden surges of intense fear, often accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Many mistake them for heart attacks. These episodes can feel unpredictable, creating a cycle of fear around future attacks.
This isn’t just shyness—a deep fear of being judged or embarrassed in social situations. It can prevent someone from speaking up in meetings or attending events. In the U.S., about 2–7% of people struggle with this condition, often starting in the teenage years.
From fear of flying to spiders, phobias can cause overwhelming reactions to specific objects or situations. While people may avoid their triggers, the anxiety can still interfere with daily life.
Though often associated with children, separation anxiety can affect adults too—particularly after trauma or significant loss. Agoraphobia involves the fear of places where escape might be intricate, like crowds or public transportation.
You’re far from alone. Globally, anxiety disorders affect around 301 million people, or roughly 4% of the population. In the United States:
Women and young adults are particularly affected. Gen Z reports some of the highest anxiety levels, often linked to social media, climate concerns, and academic pressure.
Several factors are fueling this surge:
Add to that life changes, grief, and uncertainty—and it’s easy to understand why anxiety is a growing public health concern.
If anxiety is making it hard to function, it’s time to seek help.
Signs to watch for:
You can also take the GAD-7 screening tool, a short questionnaire that helps assess severity. But remember—screenings are just a starting point. A qualified therapist can offer a complete evaluation and diagnosis.
There is no one-size-fits-all, but the following treatments are supported by substantial research:
The gold standard in anxiety treatment. CBT helps reframe negative thought patterns and build coping skills. It’s structured, practical, and highly effective.
Simple habits can make a big difference:
One of our clients once said, “I didn’t believe breathing exercises could work—until they did. Now, I start every morning with five minutes of calm.”
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and SNRIs are common prescriptions. Medication is especially useful for moderate to severe cases and is best combined with therapy.
Despite how common anxiety is, only 28% of people globally get treatment. Why?
That’s why local, compassionate providers matter. Someone who understands your community—and offers personalized support—can make all the difference.
While you can’t always avoid anxiety, you can build tools to manage it.
And most importantly, creating space to talk openly about mental health—without shame.
Anxiety doesn’t have to control your life. With the right support, tools, and treatment, you can regain peace of mind and feel like yourself again.
At Keystone Counseling Healthcare, we specialize in evidence-based, compassionate care tailored to your unique needs—whether you’re dealing with panic attacks, social anxiety, or persistent worry. We’re proud to serve communities with both in-person and telehealth services designed to fit your lifestyle.
If you’re struggling with anxiety, take the first step. Reach out today—because healing starts with one small, brave choice.
Get started now.
