When to Seek Inpatient Treatment for Anxiety: Recognize the Signs & Take Action

Anxiety is a normal part of life. We all experience it in response to various stressors, whether it’s preparing for an important presentation or navigating a challenging life event. However, when anxiety becomes excessive and begins to interfere with daily life, it can be indicative of an anxiety disorder.

A study published on ScienceDirect reveals that excessive anxiety is one of the most common types of anxiety disorders among 8 year old’s. This suggests that excessive anxiety is not only prevalent but can also start from an early age.

When Does Inpatient Treatment for Anxiety is Needed

Recognizing the signs of when inpatient treatment for anxiety is needed can be a crucial first step towards recovery. Here are ten signs that may suggest you need to seek inpatient treatment for anxiety:

1. Persistent Worry

When your ability to function is being negatively impacted by your constant worrying about different aspects of your life, such as work, relationships, health, or even seemingly unimportant things like daily tasks, it may be time to seek help. This kind of worry is often disproportionate to the situation and can be difficult to control.

2. Restlessness

This could mean feeling on edge or restless most of the time, having a hard time sitting still, or being easily startled. Restlessness is a common symptom of Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

3. Tiring Easily

Chronic anxiety can be physically exhausting, leading to constant fatigue. You might find yourself feeling tired all the time, even after adequate sleep or rest.

4. Difficulty Concentrating

If anxiety is making it hard for you to focus on tasks at hand, causing you to frequently forget things or lose your train of thought, this could be a sign of an anxiety disorder.

5. Irritability

Excessive anxiety can make individuals more irritable than usual. You might find yourself snapping at loved ones, getting frustrated with small inconveniences, or feeling generally grumpy.

6. Muscle Tension

Constant muscle tension or soreness, such as clenching your jaw or balling your fists, can be a physical symptom of an anxiety disorder. This tension might be so constant that you’ve stopped noticing it.

7. Sleep Issues

Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or unrestful sleep can be associated with anxiety disorders. You might lie awake worrying, wake up multiple times during the night, or feel tired even after a full night’s sleep.

8. Avoidance Behavior

Avoiding situations or places due to fear can be a sign of an anxiety disorder. For example, you might avoid social gatherings for fear of having a panic attack, or steer clear of driving due to irrational fears of accidents.

9. Panic Attacks

Recurrent panic attacks, characterized by intense fear and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, or a feeling of impending doom, may indicate an anxiety disorder.

10. Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

Using substances like alcohol or drugs to cope with anxiety is a harmful strategy that suggests the need for professional help. Substance abuse can worsen anxiety symptoms and make treatment more difficult.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider. Inpatient treatment for anxiety can provide a supportive environment to manage your symptoms and regain control over your life.

Seeking Admission to an Anxiety Treatment Facility

When considering admission to an anxiety treatment facility, it’s crucial to do your research and consult with a healthcare professional. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Identify Your Needs

Understand your symptoms and the severity of your condition. This will help you determine what type of treatment you need. For example, if your anxiety is severe or accompanied by other mental health conditions, inpatient treatment may be necessary.

2. Consult a Healthcare Provider

Consult a mental health specialist who can make a diagnosis and suggest the best course of action. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist, or a licensed therapist. They can aid in your better understanding of your condition and offer advice regarding your next moves. 

3. Research Facilities

Find facilities that specialize in treating anxiety disorders using reliable sources. Think about things like the treatment philosophy of the program, the staff’s training, and the facility’s standing. Websites like Luxury Rehab and Bayside Marin provide information about various treatment centers and their offerings.

4. Contact Facilities

Reach out to potential facilities to ask about their programs, treatment modalities, and admission process. Many facilities have hotlines that you can call for more information. For instance, SAMHSA’s National Helpline provides free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service.

5. Prepare for Admission

If you decide to seek inpatient treatment, you may need to take some preliminary steps. These could include completing paperwork, arranging for time off work or school, and packing necessary items. Make sure to inquire about what you should bring to the facility, any rules or guidelines you need to follow, and how long the treatment program typically lasts.

6. Follow Through with Treatment

Once admitted, engage fully with the treatment program. This could involve participating in individual and group therapy sessions, learning new coping strategies, and working towards your recovery goals. Treatment might include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, or medication depending on your specific needs and the facility’s approach.

Take Action on Your Anxiety: It Shows You’re Strong!

Seeking inpatient treatment for depression and anxiety is a significant step towards recovery. It’s often a decision made when outpatient treatment isn’t enough or when the condition starts to severely impact daily life.

Remember that recognizing the need for assistance and acting on it is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you or someone you know is suffering from anxiety or depression, consider seeking help from a healthcare professional. You can manage these conditions and lead a happy, balanced life with the right support and care.

Inpatient therapy offers a secure and encouraging setting where patients can concentrate solely on their recovery. It offers intensive, personalized care that can significantly improve outcomes. So, if you think this choice could be advantageous to you or a loved one, do not be hesitant to investigate it. 

Remember, you’re not alone in your journey, and there are numerous resources and professionals ready to aid you on your path to wellness.