Understanding and Managing Anxiety: A Primary Care Approach

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions affecting adults today. As a primary care physician, I see patients every day who are struggling with worry, restlessness, and the physical symptoms that accompany anxiety. The good news is that anxiety is highly treatable, and your primary care doctor can be an excellent first point of contact for help.

Recognizing the Signs of Anxiety

Anxiety manifests differently in everyone, but there are common signs to watch for. You might experience persistent worry that seems disproportionate to the situation, difficulty concentrating, or trouble sleeping. Physical symptoms are also common and include:

• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Muscle tension, especially in the neck and shoulders
• Digestive issues such as nausea or stomach upset
• Fatigue despite adequate rest
• Shortness of breath or feeling like you can't take a deep breath

Many patients first visit their primary care physician for these physical symptoms without realizing anxiety may be the underlying cause.

When to Seek Help

It's normal to feel anxious occasionally—before a job interview, during a stressful life event, or when facing uncertainty. However, you should consider seeking help when:

• Anxiety interferes with your daily activities, work, or relationships
• You're avoiding situations or places because of worry
• Physical symptoms are affecting your quality of life
• You're using alcohol or other substances to cope
• You feel like your worry is out of control

How Your Primary Care Physician Can Help

Your primary care doctor is uniquely positioned to help with anxiety because we can take a comprehensive approach to your health. During your visit, I typically:

• Rule out medical causes: Thyroid disorders, heart conditions, and certain medications can mimic anxiety symptoms.
• Assess severity: Using standardized screening tools to understand how anxiety is affecting you.
• Develop a treatment plan: This might include lifestyle modifications, therapy referrals, medication, or a combination.
• Provide ongoing support: Regular follow-ups to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Strategies That Can Help

While professional treatment is important for moderate to severe anxiety, there are evidence-based strategies you can start implementing today:

Lifestyle Modifications

• Regular exercise: Even 30 minutes of moderate activity most days can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms.
• Sleep hygiene: Maintain consistent sleep and wake times, limit screen time before bed.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: Both can worsen anxiety symptoms.
• Balanced nutrition: Regular meals and adequate hydration support mental health.

Relaxation Techniques

• Deep breathing: Practice diaphragmatic breathing for 5-10 minutes daily.
• Progressive muscle relaxation: Systematically tense and release muscle groups.
• Mindfulness meditation: Apps like Calm or Headspace can guide you.

Taking the First Step

If you've been struggling with anxiety, I encourage you to schedule an appointment. I'm here to listen without judgment and work with you to find solutions that fit your life. You don't have to face anxiety alone.