Anxiety is a disruptive mental health condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. This disorder can manifest as persistent worry, fear, or panic that can interfere with daily tasks and activities. In severe cases, anxiety can cause you to avoid social situations or become overly self-conscious, leading to isolation and loneliness. It can also interfere with your ability to concentrate, leading to poor performance at school or work. The San Diego psychiatrist at MindSet can help you determine the factors triggering your anxiety and offer treatment such as prTMS to restore your quality of life.
What you should know about a panic attack
A panic attack is an unprecedented, intense episode of fear and anxiety that can occur due to various circumstances. During a panic attack, you may experience various physical and psychological symptoms. Physical symptoms may include rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, chest pain, and dizziness. In contrast, psychological symptoms may include intense fear or dread, a sense of detachment from reality, and a fear of losing control or going insane. Panic attacks can be extremely distressing and overwhelming. They can come on suddenly and without warning, making you feel helpless and scared. In some cases, panic attacks can be so severe that they can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack.
Diagnostic techniques for anxiety
During your appointment at Mindset, your provider may discuss your symptoms and review your medical history. They may also perform a comprehensive evaluation to detect the underlying cause of your anxiety. The team may also conduct a physical exam to rule out any underlying medical conditions contributing to your anxiety symptoms. They may use various assessment tools, such as questionnaires or surveys, to detect excessive worry, fear, or panic and how they impact your daily life. Your doctor may also consider any co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or PTSD, which can often coexist with anxiety.
What to expect during prTMS treatment
PrTMS is a non-invasive brain stimulation therapy that treats various mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. During a PrTMS session, you will sit comfortably in a chair while your provider places a device over your head to deliver magnetic pulses to specific brain regions. These pulses stimulate nerve cells in your brain, which can help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms. During the session, you may hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping or tingling sensation on your scalp. The treatment usually lasts about 30-40 minutes. You will typically receive the treatment five days a week for several weeks, depending on the severity of your anxiety and response to treatment. Side effects may include headache, scalp discomfort, and dizziness; however, they are generally mild and temporary.
Don’t allow anxiety to take over your life when various treatment options can alleviate your symptoms. If your anxiety doesn’t respond to other conventional treatments, call the MindSet office or use the online scheduling button to create an appointment for diagnosis and treatment.
