Comprehensive Anxiety Treatment Options – We Level Up
Anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder/agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder, and others) are the most prevalent psychiatric disorders, and are associated with a high burden of illness. Anxiety disorders are often underrecognized and undertreated in primary care. Treatment is indicated when a patient shows marked distress or suffers from complications resulting from the disorder. Continue to read more about anxiety treatment options, medications, and long-term recovery.
Clinically Reviewed by Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS
Medically Reviewed by Ali Nikbakht, PsyD
Reviewed / Updated: September 20, 2025 — Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Privacy Policy
By We Level Up | Author Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA | Editorial Policy | Research Policy
What is Anxiety Treatment?
Anxiety Treatment is a common mental health condition that causes intense worry, fear, and unease. It can interfere with daily life, making it hard to go about your day. But you don’t have to struggle alone. There are many effective treatments for anxiety. With the right support, you can learn to cope with anxiety and live a fuller life. Here, we’ll look more at anxiety, including treatment and how to get help.
How is Anxiety Diagnosed?
A mental health professional can diagnose anxiety disorders through a comprehensive evaluation. You will usually begin with a physical exam by your doctor. This helps to rule out any medical issues that might cause your symptoms. Examples include hyperthyroidism or adrenal gland disorders.
From there, your healthcare team will likely use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to guide their diagnosis. You may also complete questionnaires or psychological assessments to provide more detailed information about your symptoms. Being open about your experiences helps providers make an accurate diagnosis.
It’s critical to be open and honest during the diagnostic process. An accurate diagnosis is the first step towards managing your anxiety and improving your quality of life.
Risk Factors for Anxiety
Several factors may increase your risk of developing an anxiety disorder. These include:
- Genetics: If anxiety runs in your family, your risk increases.
- Life experiences: Trauma, stressful events, or significant loss can trigger anxiety.
- Chronic medical issues: For example, heart disease, diabetes, or chronic pain may elevate anxiety risk.
- Personality traits: Certain personality traits are also linked to an increased risk of developing an anxiety disorder.
Other risk factors include substance abuse and mental health disorders like depression. Anxiety is more common in women than in men, and it often develops during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood.
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Types of Treatments for Anxiety Disorders Fact Sheet
Types of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety shows up in different ways. Here are some of the most common types of anxiety.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
With Generalized Anxiety Disorder, you worry excessively about various aspects of life, such as work, finances, or health. Physical symptoms like muscle tension, headaches, and sleep disturbances are common.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder leads to a fear of social situations, stemming from concerns about judgment, embarrassment, or rejection. You may avoid social events, struggle with public speaking, or fear interacting with unfamiliar people. Blushing, trembling, and difficulty speaking are common physical symptoms. Social anxiety disorder affects 7.1% of US adults, typically emerging during the teenage years.
Separation Anxiety Disorder
More common in children, but also seen in adults, separation anxiety involves extreme fear about being apart from loved ones or attachment figures. Refusing to leave home, sleep alone, or go to school are common behaviors. Physical complaints often arise in anticipation of separation.
Phobias
Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects or situations. Exposure to the feared stimulus triggers immediate anxiety and panic. Phobias affect 8.7% of US adults, with women more commonly diagnosed.
Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder
Substance-induced anxiety disorder results from the direct effects of a medication, substance, or illicit drug. Symptoms emerge during or shortly after substance intoxication or withdrawal. Caffeine, alcohol, cocaine, and amphetamines are frequent culprits. Substance-induced anxiety can also arise from prescription medications like corticosteroids or antidepressants.
Complications of Anxiety Disorders
Not getting treatment for an anxiety disorder can result in serious complications, like the following:
- Problems functioning at school or work.
- Suicide.
- Headaches and chronic pain.
- Social isolation.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Digestive or bowel issues.
- Depression or other mental health disorders.
- Poor quality of life.
- Substance misuse.
Those with an anxiety disorder are more likely to develop a substance use disorder. This is because many people rely on drugs or alcohol to manage the symptoms of their psychological distress.
Treatment
Anxiety treatment is usually tailored to your individual needs and combines a number of treatment modalities. With healthcare providers, you can develop a personalized plan to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life effectively.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) involves working with a therapist to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to your anxiety. You’ll learn coping strategies to manage anxiety-provoking situations. During CBT, you’ll typically have weekly sessions over several months, with assignments to practice new skills between sessions.
Exposure therapy, a type of CBT, gradually exposes you to feared situations or objects to build resilience. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) focuses on mindfulness and value-based actions. And psychodynamic therapy explores unconscious thoughts and past experiences influencing anxiety.
Medication
Medication can be an essential component of anxiety treatment, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve your overall well-being. Your healthcare provider may prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These are antidepressants that can help to manage anxiety symptoms when taken regularly. Benzodiazepines can provide rapid relief from acute anxiety symptoms.
Ketamine
Ketamine has been used for a long time as an anesthetic. More recently, it was approved for treatment-resistant depression or depression with suicidal thoughts. This version of ketamine comes as a nasal spray under the brand name Spravato.
While ketamine has shown promise as a treatment for anxiety, it is not currently approved for it.
Tapping Therapy
Tapping therapy, also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), is an alternative approach to relieving symptoms of anxiety.
During a tapping therapy session, you’ll tap a sequence of points while repeating phrases to acknowledge and release negative emotions. Some people report reduced anxiety and improved coping skills after practicing EFT.
Tapping therapy is generally safe but is not a replacement for evidence-based treatments recommended by your healthcare provider.
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7/365 Line (844) 597-1011Anxiety Disorder Statistics
Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent in the United States, affecting a significant portion of the population. These disorders substantially impact individuals’ lives, contributing to considerable distress, impairment in daily functioning, and reduced overall quality of life.
40 Million
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the US, affecting around 40 million adults aged 18 and older.
Source: NCBI
6.8 Million
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is one of the most prevalent, affecting around 6.8 million adults, or about 3.1% of the US population.
Source: NCBI
50%
Anxiety disorders often co-occur with other mental health conditions. For example, about 50% of individuals diagnosed with depression also have an anxiety disorder.
Source: NCBI
Top 5 Anxiety Treatment Studies with Insights
Here’s a patient-friendly chart of the top five Anxiety Treatment studies/guidelines.
Below is a curated, practical list of authoritative Anxiety Treatment studies and guidance you can cite in clinical copy, program pages, or treatment guides. Each row distills what the evidence implies for treatment and turns it into actionable tips for care teams and admissions scripts. Sources were chosen for recency, rigor, and relevance to integrated treatment.
| Study | Treatment Implications | Insights for Patients |
|---|---|---|
| Anxiety Screening: Systematic Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force View Study | Reinforces CBT as a first-line treatment. Treatment centers should prioritize structured CBT programs and train staff accordingly. Early screening and referrals from primary care are vital. | CBT is one of the most effective and widely recommended therapies for anxiety. It’s backed by major health organizations. If you haven’t tried CBT, it may be the place to start. |
| Self‑Guided Virtual Reality (VR) Therapy for Anxiety: A Systematic Review (2025) View Resource | VR can be used as an adjunct to therapy. We Level Up could consider adding VR options for social anxiety or fear-based conditions, especially for tech-comfortable patients. | If you’re anxious about therapy or avoid certain triggers (like social situations), VR could offer a gentle, step-by-step way to face fears safely. Ask your provider if this is an option. |
| Group Transdiagnostic Cognitive‑Behavior Therapy (tCBT) for Anxiety Disorders: A Pragmatic Randomized Clinical Trial Read Article | Group tCBT given over several sessions, along with “treatment as usual” (TAU), greatly reduces anxiety symptoms. This is true for both self-reports and clinician ratings, even in community settings. Suggests that group formats of CBT that address multiple anxiety disorders together (i.e. transdiagnostic) are practical and effective. Centers like We Level Up could incorporate transdiagnostic group CBT programs to broaden access and efficiency. | If you join a group CBT program for people with different anxiety issues, you can expect real improvements. It might be cheaper. You may feel less lonely because you are in a group. It can still give good results, even if your symptoms come from different types of anxiety. |
| Effect of Physical Exercise on Anxiety: A Meta-Review of 41 Randomized Controlled Trials Read Study | Exercise (especially moderate-to-vigorous intensity) is a highly effective intervention for reducing anxiety symptoms across all populations. Treatment centers should integrate physical wellness programs. | You don’t have to run a marathon — even walking, yoga, or short workouts can reduce anxiety. Movement changes your brain chemistry and builds mental strength. Start where you are. |
| Long‑Term Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: 2‑8 Year Follow‑Up Read Review | Treatment gains from CBT for GAD are largely maintained over years (2‑8 years post‑treatment) in symptom reduction and clinically significant change. Treatment centres should emphasize follow‑ups and relapse prevention strategies over long durations. | If you undergo CBT for GAD, many of the improvements you achieve may persist for years. Maintaining tools learned in therapy (e.g. coping strategies) is important. Don’t be discouraged if symptoms don’t disappear immediately — durability often comes with time. |
Therapies for Anxiety
Various anxiety therapies are available, each suitable for the individual’s needs. Seeing a mental health professional is important. They can give you a proper assessment and personalized advice. This helps find the best anxiety therapy for your specific situation.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of the most effective treatment options for anxiety and other mental disorders. It is a talk therapy method that teaches how your thoughts can impact your feelings and actions. By recognizing negative thoughts, you can change how you react to triggers.
Aside from CBT therapy, We Level Up offers various therapeutic options, including motivational interviewing, which can help you find the motivation to recover. Dialectical behavior therapy is another excellent treatment we provide at We Level Up. It can help you regulate your emotions more healthily.
Our anxiety treatment centers offer group therapy, support groups, and family therapy sessions. Anxiety disorders can isolate you, making the symptoms of the disorder worse. You can see you are not alone by allowing you to meet other people who struggle with similar conditions.
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(844) 597-1011In-Depth Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is typically treated using evidence-based therapeutic approaches, with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) being the most commonly recommended. CBT focuses on identifying and modifying the negative thought patterns and behaviors contributing to anxiety. Through CBT, people learn to spot and challenge anxious thoughts. They also develop balanced thinking and gain useful coping skills. Other top generalized anxiety disorder therapies include the following:
- Exposure therapy, a component of CBT, may also be utilized for GAD treatment. This means slowly exposing people to situations that cause anxiety. This helps them face and manage their fears in a safe and supportive setting.
- Relaxation techniques and stress management strategies help treat GAD. These include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation. They promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- In some cases, doctors may prescribe medication to help manage GAD symptoms. This can include SSRIs or benzodiazepines. These medications work by affecting the balance of chemicals in the brain related to anxiety.
The treatment approach can differ for each person. It is best to talk to an anxiety treatment expert. They can provide a correct diagnosis and create a treatment plan tailored to the person’s needs and preferences.
The Importance of Social Anxiety Disorder Therapy
Social anxiety disorder therapy is very important. It helps people deal with and manage the tough effects of their condition.
Through therapy, people with social anxiety disorder can understand their fears and worries better. They can slowly face and handle social situations that make them anxious. This helps improve their overall quality of life. It helps individuals build confidence, develop social skills, and reduce avoidance behaviors that perpetuate the cycle of anxiety.
Therapy provides a safe place to share and understand feelings. You can get support and validation from a trained expert. It can offer tools and methods to manage anxiety healthily. This helps people live more fulfilling and socially active lives.
OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center
Are you searching for a mental health or OCD and anxiety treatment center? An OCD and anxiety treatment center is a special place. It offers complete care for people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related anxiety issues.
The treatment centers employ a multidisciplinary team of professionals, including therapists, psychiatrists, and other mental health experts, specializing in OCD and anxiety disorders. They work collaboratively to assess, diagnose, and develop personalized therapy plans tailored to the specific needs of each individual.
The centers offer a supportive and organized environment. They provide intensive outpatient or residential programs. This helps individuals get the attention and care they need to manage their OCD and anxiety symptoms well.
Treatment for Anxiety and Depression
If you are looking for treatment for depression and anxiety, it is important to know that methods can differ. This depends on the patient’s needs and how severe the symptoms are. Typically, a combination of therapy and, in some cases, medication is utilized to address both conditions.
Therapy options may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps people identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors. Other options are evidence-based methods like interpersonal therapy (IPT) and psychodynamic therapy. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other antidepressants may be prescribed to help manage symptoms.
Working with a qualified mental health professional is very important. They can evaluate you, diagnose any issues, and create a treatment plan that fits your needs. It’s essential to seek help and treatment to address depression and anxiety effectively and improve your overall well-being.
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Managing Anxiety Attacks
Unlike a panic attack, there is no medically recognized term for an anxiety attack. However, when anxiety worsens, it can still feel like an “attack” to many people experiencing it. Here are things you can do to help overcome those times.
- Recognize the signs: Awareness of your body’s response helps you catch an attack early. Common symptoms include rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, and dizziness. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment.
- Practice deep breathing: Inhale slowly through your nose for 4 counts. Hold for 2, then exhale through pursed lips for 6. Repeat this pattern to calm your nervous system. Visualize a peaceful scene to enhance relaxation.
- Use grounding techniques: Engage your senses to reconnect with the present moment. Use the 5-4-3-2-1 technique: identify 5 things you see, 4 you feel, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, and 1 you taste. That shifts focus away from anxious thoughts.
- Challenge catastrophic thinking: Anxiety often is characterized by worst-case scenario thoughts. Question the likelihood of fears coming true. Consider alternative, more realistic outcomes. Reframe negative self-talk with compassionate statements.
- Develop a coping plan: Prepare a personalized strategy for managing attacks. This may include calling a support person, listening to calming music, or using a relaxation app. Having a plan boosts your confidence.
- Be patient with yourself: Overcoming anxiety takes practice. Celebrate small victories along the way. Over time, you’ll actually be able to train your brain through neuroplasticity.
Anxiety Treatment Without Medication
Anxiety treatment without medication often involves various therapeutic approaches. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness therapies, relaxation techniques, exercise, and lifestyle changes can help manage anxiety. These changes include stress management and healthy sleep habits. It is important to work with a mental health professional. They can help create a treatment plan that fits your needs and preferences. This is essential for long-term recovery.
Can Anxiety Be Treated at Home?
While getting professional help is important for managing anxiety, you can also take steps at home. These steps can support your treatment plan and improve your overall well-being.
Regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, or yoga, can help reduce anxiety symptoms by releasing endorphins and promoting relaxation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Practicing relaxation and mindfulness meditation can also help calm your mind and body.
Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is essential, as lack of sleep can make anxiety worse.
Create a relaxing bedtime routine and aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, which can also make anxiety worse.
Finding Anxiety Therapy Near Me
To find anxiety treatment near you, start by contacting your primary care doctor. They can give you recommendations and referrals to mental health professionals in your area. Moreover, online directories and databases can help you search for therapists or treatment facilities specializing in anxiety disorders nearby.
You can get the help you need if you struggle with anxiety disorders. We Level Up provides effective programs for treating anxiety. These programs help you understand the causes of your stress and anxiety so you can overcome them.
At our safe and comfortable facilities, you can join behavioral therapies. You will also work on other conditions and learn long-term strategies for success. You do not have to struggle with an anxiety disorder on your own. Contact We Level Up today to learn more about our treatment plan for anxiety options and locations near you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to commonly asked questions about anxiety.
Does therapy help with anxiety?
Yes, therapy is a highly effective treatment for anxiety disorders. It equips you with coping strategies and helps identify negative thought patterns contributing to anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a first-line therapy approach. It focuses on changing problematic thoughts and behaviors. You’ll work with a therapist to develop personalized techniques for overcoming anxiety and challenging long-held assumptions and beliefs.
What is the best therapy for anxiety?
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is widely recognized as a highly effective approach. It helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that fuel anxiety. Exposure therapy, a type of CBT, gradually exposes you to feared situations or objects to build resilience. Your therapist will use a personalized approach based on your specific symptoms and needs.
Can ketamine be used for anxiety?
Ketamine is not approved for anxiety. It is currently being researched for anxiety, and the results are promising. But there is not currently an FDA-approved ketamine treatment for anxiety.
What is tapping therapy for anxiety?
Tapping therapy, also known as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), is an alternative approach that combines acupressure and cognitive therapy to alleviate anxiety. It is characterized by tapping specific points on your body while focusing on anxiety-provoking thoughts or situations. It is usually safe, but there is little proof of how well it works. It should not replace other anxiety treatments.
Learn About Anxiety Disorder Facts & Anxiety Treatment Programs That Can Help You
Getting treatment for anxiety is important. It helps to address the causes and symptoms of anxiety disorders. This support allows people to take control of their lives and improve their overall well-being. Therapy can provide tools, support, and strategies to manage anxiety, reduce distressing symptoms, and enhance daily functioning.
If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety or other mental disorder(s), call for a FREE consultation 24/7 at (561) 678-0917
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Learn About Anxiety Disorder Facts Video Script
Anxiety disorders are a very common mental health condition. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 31.1% of Americans have suffered from some anxiety disorder.
Everyone feels anxiety. It is a natural stress response. However, people with anxiety disorders often have strong, excessive, and lasting worries about daily situations. These feelings of anxiety and panic interfere with daily activities and are difficult to control. They are also out of proportion to the actual degree of danger and last long after exposure to the trigger. In many cases, these symptoms lead people to avoid situations or people that might trigger anxiety. Symptoms may start during childhood or the teen years and continue into adulthood.
Anxiety activates the stress response, also known as the fight, flight, or freeze response. This survival reaction immediately stimulates the body into emergency action, putting stress on the body.
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Search We Level Up Anxiety Treatment, Mental Health Topics & Resources
Resources
Panic Attacks Treatment Options – Learn about medically supervised treatments, therapy techniques, and self-care methods for panic attacks, guided by licensed professionals.
PTSD Treatment – Provides treatment approaches for post-traumatic stress disorder, often co-occurring with anxiety.
OCD Treatment – Covers evidence-based therapies for obsessive-compulsive disorder, which shares overlap with anxiety disorders.
Depression Treatment – Discusses depression treatments, which are important since anxiety and depression frequently appear together.
Sources
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[4] Anxiety Disorders – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
[5] Prevention and Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors Among College Students – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
[6] Mental Health Conditions: Depression and Anxiety – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
[7] Anxiety Disorders: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatments – MedlinePlus (.gov)
[8] Mental Health and Mental Disorders – Healthy People 2030 https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/mental-health-and-mental-disorders
[9] Munir S, Takov V. Generalized Anxiety Disorder. [Updated 2022 Oct 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441870/
[10] Any Anxiety Disorder – NIMH – National Institutes of Health (NIH)