Have you ever felt that constant buzzing of worry that just won't go away? Or maybe a racing heart and a feeling of dread before a big test or social event? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner my goal is to help you find a way to quiet those feelings. While feeling nervous is a normal part of life, a constant sense of worry might be an anxiety disorder. It's a real medical condition that can affect your daily life, and the good news is, it's very treatable. ​

Finding Balance with Medication ​

Think of your brain as a complicated switchboard with millions of tiny connections. Sometimes, in anxiety, certain signals can get stuck on "high alert." Psychotropic medications can act like a dimmer switch for your brain's “worry center.” They help balance your brain's natural messengers, called neurotransmitters, so those signals can calm down. ​The most common medicines for anxiety are actually antidepressants, like SSRIs and SNRIs. These work by helping your brain use key messengers like serotonin more effectively, which can lead to a calmer mood. For more severe symptoms, like a panic attack, there are also fast-acting anti-anxiety medicines that can be used for a short time. Finding the right medication is a process we’ll do together, and it's a very important step toward feeling more at peace. ​

The Role of Therapy ​

Even with medication, it's so important to learn how to manage anxious thoughts. That’s where talk therapy comes in. It’s a chance for you to speak openly about your feelings and learn skills that can help you take control of your anxiety. Working with a therapist is a proven way to get better, and combining it with medication is often the most effective approach. ​Research has shown that specific types of therapy are incredibly helpful for anxiety. One is called Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It's about figuring out how your thoughts, feelings, and actions are all connected. A therapist helps you learn to challenge those anxious thoughts and replace them with more helpful ways of thinking. Another great option is Exposure Therapy, which helps you gradually and safely face the things that make you anxious. By doing this with a trained professional, you can learn that the things you fear are often not as scary as they seem. ​

Your Journey to Feeling Better ​

Your path to wellness is a team effort. As your partner, I'm here to create a treatment plan that fits you, including medication, therapy, and other strategies to support your mental health. Please know that you are not alone, and help is here. Taking the first step by reaching out for help is a brave and powerful decision.

If you choose not to get help at State of Mind Wellness please get help somewhere.

 ​Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult with your provider before starting or changing any treatment.