Anxiety

Are you feeling constantly on edge, overwhelmed by worry, or struggling to relax even when everything seems “fine”? Anxiety can affect your thoughts, sleep, focus, and overall wellbeing — but you don’t have to manage it alone. At Shanell's Psychiatry Care, LLC in Peoria, Illinois, led by Shanell Gladson, APRN, PMHNP-BC, the team provides compassionate, personalized care to help you regain calm and confidence. Call today or book your visit online to start feeling more in control.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent worry, fear, or nervousness that feels difficult to control. While occasional stress is a normal part of life, anxiety becomes a concern when it is intense, long-lasting, or interferes with your daily routine, relationships, or work.

Anxiety can affect both your mind and body. You may find yourself anticipating the worst, overthinking situations, or feeling constantly alert. Physically, anxiety can show up as tension, fatigue, or restlessness.

There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Each presents differently, but all are treatable.

What are the symptoms of anxiety?

Symptoms can vary from person to person, but commonly include:

• Emotional and cognitive symptoms
• Excessive or uncontrollable worry
• Racing thoughts
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Feeling restless or “on edge”
• Physical symptoms
• Muscle tension
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Upset stomach or nausea
• Sleep disturbances

Some individuals may experience panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like chest tightness, dizziness, or a feeling of losing control.

What causes anxiety?

Anxiety does not have one single cause. It typically develops from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

Genetics may increase your risk, especially if anxiety runs in your family. Brain chemistry, particularly imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, can also contribute. Stressful life events, trauma, chronic stress, or major transitions may trigger or worsen symptoms.

It’s important to remember that anxiety is not a weakness or personal failure. It is a medical condition that responds well to treatment.

How is anxiety treated?

Treatment at Shanell's Psychiatry Care, LLC is tailored to your specific needs and goals. Therapy is often a core component of care, helping you identify triggers, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and build practical coping skills.

Medication may also be recommended to help regulate mood and reduce physical symptoms. Lifestyle strategies, stress-management techniques, and ongoing support are often integrated into your treatment plan.

With the right care, relief is possible. If anxiety is affecting your quality of life, reach out to Shanell's Psychiatry Care, LLC by phone or online.