Understanding Anxiety
Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric conditions, affecting 40 million adults in the U.S. They encompass a spectrum including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, specific phobias, and anxiety related to trauma (PTSD). Anxiety involves persistent, excessive worry or fear that is disproportionate to the actual threat — and that significantly impairs daily functioning.
Signs & Symptoms
- Persistent excessive worry difficult to control
- Physical tension, muscle aches, fatigue
- Sleep disturbances — trouble falling or staying asleep
- Difficulty concentrating, mind going blank
- Irritability and restlessness
- Avoidance of anxiety-triggering situations
- Panic attacks (in panic disorder subtype)
How Dr. Agresti Treats This Condition
Dr. Agresti treats anxiety with an integrated approach combining evidence-based psychotherapy — primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — with targeted medication management when appropriate. CBT directly addresses the thought patterns and behavioral patterns that maintain anxiety. Medication options include SSRIs, SNRIs, buspirone, and low-dose benzodiazepines for acute management when appropriate. The goal is lasting symptom reduction, not just management.
Medication Options
- SSRIs: Lexapro (escitalopram), Zoloft (sertraline), Prozac (fluoxetine)
- SNRIs: Effexor XR (venlafaxine), Cymbalta (duloxetine)
- Buspirone (Buspar) — non-habit-forming option
- Beta-blockers for situational performance anxiety
- Benzodiazepines: for acute use with careful monitoring
The Concierge Advantage
With Dr. Agresti's concierge model, medication adjustments happen quickly when you need them — not at your next appointment weeks away. Text him directly if symptoms worsen. Get same-day refills. Reach him directly when you're having a difficult day. This level of access makes a meaningful difference in psychiatric treatment outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Research consistently shows that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the gold standard for most anxiety disorders, with or without medication. The combination of CBT and appropriate medication often produces the best outcomes for moderate to severe anxiety.
SSRIs and SNRIs — the first-line medications for anxiety — are not addictive. Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan) can cause physical dependence with regular use. Dr. Agresti is careful about prescribing benzodiazepines and typically reserves them for acute use or specific situations.
Most patients notice improvement in 4–8 weeks with medication and/or therapy. CBT courses typically run 12–16 sessions. Many patients achieve lasting remission; others benefit from ongoing maintenance treatment.
Many patients achieve full remission — long periods without significant anxiety symptoms. Others manage anxiety effectively with a combination of learned coping skills and, when needed, medication. The goal is a life not limited by anxiety.
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