Anxiety

Effective management of anxiety disorders starts with an accurate assessment and compassionate care. The team at Atlantic Behavioral Specialists LLC with offices in Vienna, Fairfax, and Sterling, Virginia, provides expert diagnosis and treatment for individuals struggling with anxiety. Untreated anxiety can interfere with school, work, relationships, and may contribute to depression or suicidal thoughts.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural response to stress, worry, or fear, and it can sometimes be helpful—helping you stay alert or perform better in challenging situations. However, anxiety disorders occur when worry becomes excessive and interferes with daily life. Common types of anxiety disorders include:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent and excessive worry about everyday matters, from health concerns to routine tasks.

  • Phobias: Intense fear of specific objects or situations, such as heights, spiders, flying, or confined spaces. The fear is out of proportion to the actual risk.

  • Social Anxiety Disorder: Extreme fear of social situations, often leading to avoidance and social isolation. Unlike shyness, social anxiety significantly disrupts daily functioning.

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting roughly one-third of people in the U.S. at some point in their lives.

Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety can cause both emotional and physical symptoms, including:

  • Constant worry, stress, or fear

  • Shaking, muscle tension, headaches

  • Excessive sweating, pounding heart, dry mouth

  • Nausea, lightheadedness, or rapid breathing

In some cases, anxiety can escalate into panic attacks, which may mimic symptoms of a heart attack, including chest pain and difficulty breathing, causing extreme distress.

Treatment Options for Anxiety

The Atlantic Behavioral Specialists LLC team provides comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders, including:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Interpersonal Psychotherapy

  • Deep breathing and relaxation techniques

  • Anti-anxiety medications

Despite the prevalence of anxiety disorders, only about one-third of those affected receive the treatment they need. Professional care can help reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and restore balance in daily functioning.

Comprehensive Services

In addition to anxiety treatment, we offer:

  • Medication management

  • Primary care

  • Psychotherapy

  • ADHD testing

  • TMS therapy

We also provide care for ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, and other mental health conditions, ensuring holistic support for your mental and emotional well-being.