Stress & Anxiety

When stress and anxiety become overwhelming, they can interfere with your ability to enjoy everyday life and manage daily responsibilities. The Potomac Shores Mental Health and Wellness team in Woodbridge and Falls Church, Virginia, understands that everyone experiences stress; however, when it feels unmanageable, it can lead to exhaustion and frustration. With the proper care and support, you can learn strategies to manage stress and anxiety effectively and regain control of your life. Call today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What are stress and anxiety?

Stress and anxiety are how your body naturally responds to challenging situations. Stress often arises when you face overwhelming demands like deadlines at work, family issues, or financial concerns. It can lead to pressure or tension.

Anxiety is a more persistent feeling of worry or dread, even when there isn’t an immediate threat.

What are the signs of stress and anxiety?

Stress and anxiety can manifest in different ways, including:

• Feeling overwhelmed or easily irritated
• Experiencing headaches, muscle tightness, or stomach pain
• Having trouble sleeping or frequently waking up at night
• Changes in eating habits, like eating more or less
• Struggling to focus or make decisions
• Pulling away from friends and activities you once enjoyed
• Noticing a racing heart in stressful moments
• Experiencing sudden panic attacks with intense fear or discomfort

The mental health professionals at Potomac Shores Mental Health and Wellness can help you develop strategies to manage stress and anxiety more effectively.

What triggers stress and anxiety?

Stress and anxiety can arise from many different sources, and what bothers one person might not affect another. Common triggers include:

• Moving, starting a new job, or other big life changes
• Financial difficulties or career-related pressures
• Conflicts with family and friends or relationship issues
• Health concerns
• Exams, deadlines, and other academic pressures
• Feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities
• Traumatic events 
• Daily hassles, like traffic or household chores
• Lack of support from friends or family
• Uncertainty about the future or unexpected challenges

Recognizing what sets off your stress and anxiety is essential to helping you find better ways to cope and feel more in control.

How are stress and anxiety treated?

Potomac Shores Mental Health and Wellness takes a multifaceted approach to stress and anxiety treatment that may include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

In CBT, you learn practical skills to challenge irrational beliefs and replace them with healthier thoughts. 

Exposure therapy

This technique gradually helps you face your fears in a safe environment. By slowly confronting the situations that trigger your anxiety, you learn to reduce your fear over time. 

Medication

The team may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to provide relief from symptoms, making it easier for you to engage in therapy and practice coping strategies.

If you feel overwhelming stress and anxiety, reach out to the expert team at Potomac Shores Mental Health and Wellness. Call or schedule an appointment online today.