Are you struggling with persistent worry, panic, or fear that interferes with your daily life? Dr. Lisa Fairweather provides specialized anxiety treatment in Colleyville & Fort Worth, using a compassionate, evidence-based approach. Our mission is to help you understand your anxiety, regain control, and achieve lasting peace of mind. We believe every adult deserves to feel confident and supported in their mental health journey.
Anxiety Diagnosis and Treatment
Anxiety can manifest as constant worry, panic attacks, social fears, or physical symptoms like a racing heart. Many adults with anxiety have managed symptoms since childhood, but stressors in adulthood can make them harder to cope with. In Fort Worth, Dr. Fairweather conducts a thorough evaluation, reviewing your history, symptoms, and any life changes that may contribute to anxiety. Early diagnosis and targeted anxiety treatment/anxiety medication improve outcomes and help you reclaim your quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety:
- Persistent or excessive worry
- Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
- Muscle tension and headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability and sleep disturbances
- Physical symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath
Anxiety symptoms can include excessive fear or worry along with physical symptoms that interfere with daily life.
|
Emotional and Cognitive Symptoms |
Physical Symptoms |
|
Feeling extremely worried or nervous more frequently or more intensely |
Feeling restless or “on edge.” |
|
Persistent feeling of anxiety or dread |
Fatigue |
|
Trouble controlling worry |
Trouble concentrating |
|
Irritability |
Muscle tension |
|
Worry that interferes with daily life |
Problems with sleep |
Source: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Symptoms may shift over time, sometimes becoming less obvious but still disruptive. Our team helps you identify your unique pattern and develop strategies for lasting relief.
How Dr. Fairweather Evaluates Anxiety
Dr. Fairweather will ask about your mental health and physical symptoms, daily functioning, and any triggers that worsen your anxiety. She uses clinical interviews and standardized tools to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Our anxiety treatment is always individualized, considering your history, lifestyle, and personal goals. We also screen for co-occurring conditions such as depression, ADHD, or substance use that may complicate anxiety.
Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent psychiatric conditions in the U.S. and in most other populations. Approximately 25% of the U.S. population meets criteria for at least one anxiety disorder. Anxiety is more common in women than men, and women have a 30% chance of experiencing an anxiety disorder some time during the course of their lives. Anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and specific Phobias.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a diffuse, unpleasant, vague sense of apprehension that is often accompanied by physical symptoms such as headache, stomach discomfort, perspiration, or tremulousness. Most people experience anxiety from time to time; pathologic anxiety (that which is considered a disorder due to severity of symptoms or impact on functioning), although common, is not normal and often necessitates psychiatric treatment.
The Distinction between Fear and Anxiety
Fear and anxiety act as alerting signals; they warn of impending danger and enable a person to take measures to deal with a threat. Fear is a rational response to a known, external, definite threat. Anxiety, on the other hand, is typically fear that is out of proportion to the severity of or the likelihood of the perceived threat.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is ongoing, excessive worry or fear that occurs more days than not for at least 6 months. Most people worry from time to time, but those with GAD worry so much that it interferes with their day to day life. Other signs of GAD include: trouble falling or staying asleep, muscle tension, irritability, trouble concentrating, fatigue or low energy level, and/or restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge.
Patients with GAD typically respond very well to appropriate treatment with medication, but GAD typically responds more robustly to a combination of medication and counseling or psychotherapy.
Panic Disorder
Panic Disorder is a common condition in which a person has episodes of intense fear or anxiety that occur suddenly (often without warning). These episodes–called panic attacks or anxiety attacks–can last from minutes to hours. Common symptoms of panic attacks are shortness of breath, heart racing, chest pain or tightness, sweating, shaking, nausea, lightheadedness or dizziness, out-of-body sensations, tingling or numbness (typically in the face, hands or feet), chills or hot flashes, feeling that you are choking, and a sense of impending doom or fear of dying, losing control, or going crazy.
Many of the symptoms that occur during a panic attack are the same as the symptoms of diseases of the heart, lungs, intestines or nervous system. The similarities between panic disorder and other diseases may add to the person’s fear and anxiety during and after a panic attack.
Just the fear of having a panic attack is often enough to trigger the symptoms, and many panic disorder patients worry excessively about when the next panic attack may occur. Most panic disorder patients do not have all of the above symptoms at once; however, the presence of at least four symptoms, if they occur simultaneously, strongly suggests that a person has panic disorder.
Treatment of panic disorder is essential, as the disorder is often disabling and tends to worsen with time. After you have been thoroughly evaluated, Dr. Fairweather will be able to tell you if your panic attacks are related to panic disorder or are caused by another psychiatric or medical condition. There are several highly effective treatments for panic disorder. Based on your particular symptom picture and your psychiatric and medical history, Dr. Fairweather may prescribe appropriate treatment. Most patients see improvement. Many patients, once treatment has been optimized, are completely free from panic attacks.
Why Is It Important to Treat Anxiety?
Untreated anxiety can affect your work, relationships, and overall health. Seeking help with anxiety treatment and panic disorder treatment can help you regain control, improve your daily functioning, and prevent symptoms from worsening. Early support provides effective coping strategies and boosts your confidence. Our goal is to help you live fully and comfortably, no matter your challenges.
Related Conditions and Services
- Depression
- Panic Disorder
- Social Anxiety
- OCD
- Stress Management
We also address sleep issues, relationship challenges, and work-related stress. Contact us for more information or explore our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is anxiety diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive interview, symptom review, and assessment of your history. Dr. Fairweather uses clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy. Anxiety treatment starts with a thorough evaluation, so you receive the right care. Family input may be included if helpful.
What is involved in anxiety treatment?
Treatment includes a personalized plan with medication, therapy, and coping strategies. Dr. Fairweather monitors your progress and makes adjustments as needed. Education and support are provided at every step. Our goal is to help you feel empowered and confident in your recovery.
Will my treatment plan change over time?
Yes, treatment plans are regularly reviewed and adjusted based on your progress. Dr. Fairweather values your feedback and works with you to ensure ongoing success. Our anxiety treatment in Colleyville & Fort Worth is designed to evolve with your needs.
Can anxiety treatment help with work or relationship problems?
Anxiety can impact your performance at work and your relationships. Our treatment addresses these challenges, helping you improve communication, focus, and emotional regulation.
What if I have both anxiety and another condition?
Integrated care is available for co-occurring conditions like depression or ADHD. Dr. Fairweather develops a comprehensive plan to address all aspects of your mental health. Our anxiety treatment in Colleyville & Fort Worth is always holistic and individualized for your best outcome.
Can anxiety be treated without medication?
Yes, many people benefit from therapy, mindfulness, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is highly effective for anxiety. Dr. Fairweather will discuss all options and tailor your anxiety treatment to your needs. Non-medication approaches are always available.
How long does anxiety treatment take to work?
Some patients notice improvement within weeks, while others may take longer. Consistent follow-up and communication are key to success. Anxiety treatment is a collaborative process, and your plan will be adjusted as needed. Patience and persistence lead to lasting results.
Are telehealth appointments available for anxiety treatment?
Yes, we offer secure telehealth appointments for generalized anxiety disorder treatment. Virtual visits provide flexibility and privacy. Our team will help you set up your appointment and answer any technical questions. Telehealth is a convenient option for many patients.
Can anxiety treatment help with sleep problems?
Absolutely. Anxiety often disrupts sleep, but effective treatment can restore healthy sleep patterns. Dr. Fairweather addresses sleep issues as part of your treatment. We provide strategies for better rest and overall wellness.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes, your privacy is our top priority. Dr. Fairweather and her team follow strict confidentiality guidelines for all anxiety treatments in Colleyville & Fort Worth. You can discuss sensitive topics openly, knowing your information is secure.
Schedule a Confidential Appointment
Take the first step toward relief today. Schedule your appointment for anxiety treatment in Colleyville & Fort Worth through our patient portal. Our caring staff will answer your questions and help you get started. We offer flexible hours and telehealth options for your convenience.
Our goal is to provide you with personalized, thorough, effective treatment in an environment that is professional, welcoming and private. ~ Dr. Fairweather