Anxious about Anxiety?
The Bridge Assisted Living at Longmont
Aug 23, 2021
Colorado - Boulder County
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According to the Mayo Clinic, there is not a clear cause for anxiety disorders. They may be triggered by traumatic events, but this is typically in people who are already prone to anxiety. Genetic and environmental factors, such as stress at school or work, can play a part in who experiences anxiety. Some health-related problems and the stress associated with them may also contribute to a persons anxiety, such as heart disease, diabetes and thyroid problems. Having other mental disorders can also put someone at greater risk of experiencing anxiety disorders. In fact, anxiety often leads to, occurs with or worsens other mental disorders, such as depression, insomnia and substance abuse.
There are many types of anxiety disorders, including panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety and generalized anxiety disorder. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders affect an estimated 40 million people in the United States alone, and women are 60 percent more likely to be affected than men. Only one third of affected people seek treatment, although there are many ways to treat or manage these disorders. The Mayo Clinic and the ADAA list several common forms of treatment, coping mechanisms and prevention techniques.
PREVENTING ANXIETY
Certain lifestyle changes can make a difference. Making sleep a priority is important to keep your body rested as sleep deprivation has been linked to activating brain regions that contribute to excessive worrying, according to a study from the University of California at Berkeley. Keeping an exercise routine is also key in reducing stress and improving mood. Limiting alcohol and caffeine is essential to reducing anxiety as both of these substances can cause or worsen anxiety or panic attacks.
MANAGING ANXIETY
Learning what triggers anxiety or panic attacks can help those affected find ways to cope with them. A good way to do this is by keeping a journal of stressors and looking for a pattern. Techniques such as counting to 10 slowly, taking deep breaths, going for a walk or delving into a favorite hobby are all good ways to break the cycle. It is also important to check the facts and put the worries into perspective. It helps people with anxiety to accept that not everything can be controlled and that everything that goes wrong is not their fault.
PSYCHOTHERAPY
Perhaps the most common way to treat anxiety disorders is a combination of psychotherapy and medication. There are many different forms of psychotherapy, which involve talking with a therapist to find ways to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms. Types of therapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. The most common form of therapy and, according to the Mayo Clinic, the most effective, is CBT, which involves focusing, identifying and changing thinking and behavioral patterns.
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS
Several types of medications are used to treat anxiety disorders, and it can take some time to find the right medication to fit the individual needs of each patient. It is very common for these medications to be used. In fact, according to ADAA, one in 10 people in the United States take antidepressants, a common medication for anxiety and the primary type of prescribed medication used by people ages 18 to 44. Apart from psychiatrists, medications are also commonly prescribed by primary care physicians as well as nurse practitioners and can be used as short-term or long-term treatment.
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE AND TREATMENT
For those who are reluctant to try prescription medication, many forms of alternative treatment options are available. According to the Mayo Clinic and ADAA, several herbal remedies have been studied, but more research is needed to understand the risks and benefits. Some of these herbal remedies include passionflower, valerian root, chamomile and lavender. Before taking any herbal supplements as treatment for anxiety, people should research the risks and benefits and talk to a doctor, especially is the supplement will be taken along with prescription medication. Some herbal supplements can cause serious side effects when taken in conjunction with other medications.
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About Dignity Care
Dignity Care is a homegrown business in Boulder.In the 1990s, Mary Kirk, a registered dietitian, began caregiving for family and relatives. Her husband, Ged, offered a companion travel service for the elderly and disabled. Together they established Dignity Care, LLC in 1997 as a home care business with just two caregivers and a home office.As demand for home care service increased, Mary recruited additional caregivers, but always with an emphasis on the compassionate, respectful, personalized care that was Dignity Cares trademark. Mary created her own approach to senior home care, unique in this area.With this dedication and passion to provide the best caregivers in the Boulder County region, Dignity Care has continued to grow and in 2009 became licensed as a Class A home care provider. We specialize in using Certified Nursing Assistants on our teams so we can bring you the skill and experience you deserve, if you have any questions, please call us at 303-444-4040.
In Home Care Helps Seniors with Depression
Too many seniors grapple with isolation and depression, but these are not a normal part of growing older. They are treatable medical illnesses, much like heart disease or diabetes. Depression is a serious illness affecting approximately 15 out of every 100 adults over age 65 in the United States.Seniors experiencing feelings of depression and isolation have a higher risk of hospital admissions, as well as a higher risk for being scammed. Not to mention it makes for a miserable life.So, what can you do? Helping seniors stay healthy means more than ensuring they get good physical care. Individuals living alone miss out on the stimulation of interactions with others on a regular basis. Our caregivers serve that dual purpose of providing physical care and social connection. We enjoy our clients, building a relationship with them, and sharing the highs and lows of their days. Caregivers can laugh with their clients and be an empathetic ear. We make sure our clients are getting out of the house and attending events and activities that interest them.Hiring a caregiver to help out, even for a couple of hours each week, brings conversation and spark along with the physical help. Caregivers are a good antidote for depression. If you have any questions, please call us at 303-444-4040.
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The Bridge Assisted Living at Longmont
Assisted Living 2444 Pratt Street, Longmont, Colorado, 80501Comfort and luxury abound at The Bridge, a premier assisted living community. If you or your loved one need a reminder about taking medication or a little help with tasks such as dressing, bathing and grooming, an assisted living community may provide the perfect amount of care. At our location you will find professional staff members working with residents and their family members.