Heather Lokteff, LPC

Are you stressed and overwhelmed and need a space to decompress and learn some helpful self-care strategies?  Most of us have some degree of anxiety, so you’re not alone! For some it can be debilitating or take control of your mind.  Here are the symptoms of various forms of anxiety.

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• Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge

• Being easily fatigued

• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank

• Irritability

• Muscle tension

• Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling/staying asleep, or restless unsatisfying sleep)

 

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• Fear of being exposed to unfamiliar people or possible scrutiny of others

• Fear of acting in a way that will be humiliating or embarrassing

• Exposure to social situations provokes anxiety

• Person recognized that the fear is excessive or unreasonable

• Feared social or performance situations are avoided or endured with intense anxiety or distress

• Avoidance, anxious anticipation, or distress in social/performance situations. 

• Interferes with normal routine, occupational/academic functioning, or social activities. 

 

 

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A panic attack is defined as a discrete period of intense fear or discomfort, in which a combination of physical symptoms develop abruptly and usually reach a peak within 10 minutes. 

Physical Symptoms include:

• palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate

• sweating

• trembling or shaking

• sensations of shortness of breath or smothering

• feeling of choking

• chest pain or discomfort

• nausea or abdominal distress

• feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint

• derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself)

• fear of losing control or going crazy

• fear of dying

• paresthesias (numbness or tingling sensations)

• chills or hot flashes

 

 

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I work with my clients on processing situations both past and present that contribute to anxiety and identify skills to shift mindsets, be more relaxed, and be more in charge of your own mind.  I apply Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy methods with a supportive, safe and non-judgment therapeutic alliance being my main focus. 

 

If these symptoms resonate with you, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.  Anxiety is treatable, and it’s one of the most common issues I see in my practice. 

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