Anxiety Disorders

Experiencing fear is a protective evolutionary response to a present or immediate threat, while anxiety is a feeling of unease or worry about potential future threats or uncertain events. Experiencing persistent anxiety may indicate an Anxiety Disorder.

Dr. Filipovic-Jewell’s approach to patients with anxiety symptoms includes a comprehensive assessment that consists of the following: diagnostic clinical interview with a thorough review of medical history and laboratory tests to exclude medical causes of anxiety symptoms.

Upon establishing anxiety disorder diagnosis, Dr. Zorica Filipovic-Jewell employs evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or other therapeutic approaches, medication management if deemed appropriate, management of sleep problems if appropriate, lifestyle and stress management strategies such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques.

Common Anxiety Disorders:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder [GAD]: Characterized by persistent worry about various aspects of life, often without a specific cause, sleep problems, and physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, nausea.

Panic Disorder: Involves sudden, repeated episodes of intense fear, often accompanied by chest pain, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, sweating, headache, nausea.

Social Anxiety Disorder: Characterized by intense fear of judgment or embarrassment in social situations, fear of interacting or talking with strangers and avoiding social contacts.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder [OCD]: Characterized by unwanted and intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) performed to alleviate distress. Common obsessions: fear of contamination or dirt, needing things to be orderly and balanced, aggressive thoughts about losing control and harming others, unwanted thoughts, including aggression, or sexual or religious subjects.

Phobias: Extreme fear of specific objects, situations, or environments (e.g., flying, heights, animals).

Living with anxiety can be challenging. However, effective treatment can lead to significant relief for most individuals. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and begin your journey towards calmness, clarity, and confidence.