When Is It Appropriate to Get a Second Opinion About a Psychiatric Diagnosis?
Have you been given a psychiatric diagnosis but aren’t sure if it’s the right one? You’re always entitled to seek a second opinion to put your mind at ease.
Normal Anxiety vs. Anxiety Disorders: Understanding the Difference
Having anxiety can really make your life hard. On top of any problems you’re encountering, your mind just won’t shut up about your concerns. Do you just feel anxious about some things, or are you experiencing an actual anxiety disorder?
As a board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Ifeanyi Olele of Genesis Psychiatric Solutions provides help in differentiating between normal anxiousness and actual anxiety disorders, and offering treatment to help you overcome any long-term issues you may have.
Feeling anxious
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time. Usually it’s connected to a real and present life circumstance or upcoming event. You could be worried about finances, a job interview, or a big test at school.
This kind of anxiety usually means you’re nervous, might have a little stomach upset or butterflies, or stay awake at night trying to figure out a solution. These symptoms are usually mild and don’t last long.
Normal anxiety usually goes away after whatever is bothering you has been resolved or has passed. You go back to feeling fine and don’t have anxious feelings — at least, until the next thing to worry about comes along.
Having an anxiety disorder
An anxiety disorder means you feel anxious almost all the time, whether there is something to really be worried about or not. The symptoms of an anxiety disorder are different from just feeling anxious.
If you have an anxiety disorder, you may find yourself dealing with chronic symptoms like:
- Long periods of intense insomnia
- Episodes of hyperventilation or chest pain not related to the heart
- Trembling or shaking, muscle tension, or fatigue
- Constant worry and obsession about daily tasks
- A constant feeling of looming doom
You may feel afraid to try new things or even try to enjoy familiar hobbies or social gatherings. You can even end up paralyzed with anxiety and unable to complete basic daily tasks. When anxiety is interfering with your ability to lead a normal life, it’s time to ask for help.
Treatment for anxiety
Depending on the type of anxiety disorder you have (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, phobia disorder), Dr. Olele may recommend psychotherapy, anti-anxiety medication, or both.
In most cases, a combination of treatments can help you calm your immediate anxiety to a manageable level. Then you can start learning how to control your reactions to anxiety and overcome your symptoms.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Olele, call our location closest to you or request an appointment online. We have offices in Alexandria and Fairfax, Virginia, and Washington, DC. Dr. Olele can also deliver services via telemedicine.
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