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For Veterans facing anxiety-related challenges, the VA offers a range of proven and effective treatment options.
Dealing with everyday stress is part of life, but when persistent worries begin to impact daily activities, work, sleep, or relationships, it may be a sign that the issue needs to be addressed. Anxiety problems affect a significant number of adults, with nearly one-third experiencing severe anxiety at some point in their lives.
Common symptoms of anxiety include excessive worrying, restlessness, racing heart, difficulty concentrating, trembling, and difficulty sleeping. While anxiety can be a motivator, persistent and overwhelming anxiety requires attention.
Types of Anxiety
Social Anxiety
For Veterans with social phobia, strong and enduring anxiety in social situations can hinder participation in certain activities, such as public speaking or attending crowded events.
Generalized Anxiety
Those with generalized anxiety constantly grapple with worries about various aspects of daily life, affecting their ability to control and stop these concerns. Symptoms may include restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, fatigue, and sleep difficulties.
Panic Attacks
Veterans with panic disorder experience recurrent, intense episodes of fear known as panic attacks, accompanied by symptoms like heart palpitations, trembling, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. Fear of having additional panic attacks can lead to avoidance behaviors, significantly limiting one’s life experiences.
Specific Phobias
Intense fear triggered by specific objects or situations characterizes phobias. These fears can disrupt daily life, and recognizing when they interfere is important for coping.
VA Treatment Options
The VA offers proven and effective treatments for anxiety. Evidence-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy help individuals understand and address anxiety-inducing thoughts and feelings. Cognitive behavioral therapy focuses on neutralizing unhelpful thoughts and developing response prevention strategies.
Regardless of military or civilian experiences, the VA is committed to supporting Veterans facing mental health challenges. VA providers collaborate with Veterans to determine the most suitable medications, evidence-based treatments, and therapies.
Evidence-Based Therapy
VA provides evolving evidence-based therapies for various mental health conditions, ensuring personalized treatment plans that align with individual recovery journeys.
Medication
Combining medications with psychosocial support and therapy offers the best chance of symptom reduction and functional restoration. Collaborative efforts with healthcare providers determine the most effective medication for each individual.
Supportive Treatment Options
Beyond evidence-based therapies, VA offers supportive therapy options tailored to individual needs, including talk therapy, residential programs, supported work settings, and more.
Finding Help Today
In Person
Locate mental health specialists at your nearest VA medical center using the facility locator.
Telehealth & Online
Telehealth makes it easier for Veterans to connect with their VA care team from home. Access mental health support wherever you are with VA’s mental health apps and the Veteran Training self-help portal, offering tools for overcoming challenges in an anonymous environment.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
