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Anxiety

Adult Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner located in Sacramento, Los Angeles and Yuba City, CA, Las Vegas, NV and Portland, OR


For many people, anxiety isn’t just occasional nervousness before a big moment. It’s a persistent weight that follows them through the workday and into their relationships, and may even keep them awake at night. At Life Balance Health, board-certified nurse practitioner Patrick Ollar, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, helps adults across California, Nevada, and Oregon identify and treat anxiety disorders with care built around their specific experience. Call today to schedule your telehealth consultation or book online to get started.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is your body’s response to stress, but when it’s persistent, excessive, or difficult to control, it crosses into a clinical condition. Anxiety disorders are common, yet many people spend years managing symptoms on their own without realizing effective treatment is available.

What are the different types of anxiety?

Anxiety disorders share common features but present in distinct ways depending on the type. Different types include:

Generalized anxiety disorder

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) involves chronic, wide-ranging worry that feels disproportionate to the actual circumstances.

Social anxiety disorder

People with this condition experience intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated in social or performance situations, often leading to avoidance of interactions they need or want to have.

Panic disorder

Panic disorder involves recurring, unexpected panic attacks and persistent fear of having another one. 

What are common anxiety symptoms?

Anxiety affects both your mind and your body. You might experience:

  • Persistent worry that feels impossible to control
  • Racing thoughts 
  • Irritability or feeling on edge 
  • Muscle tension, headaches, or stomach problems
  • Avoiding things that trigger anxious feelings
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
  • Physical symptoms like a racing heart or shortness of breath

When these symptoms interfere with work, relationships, or daily responsibilities, it’s time to seek support.

What causes anxiety?

Several factors can contribute to an anxiety disorder developing, including:

  • Genetics and family history
  • Brain chemistry and nervous system differences
  • Chronic stress or major life changes
  • Trauma or adverse experiences
  • Underlying medical conditions
  • Substance use or certain medications

Understanding what’s driving your anxiety helps Patrick build a treatment plan that addresses the root cause.

How is anxiety treated?

At Life Balance Health, Patrick tailors anxiety treatment to your specific symptoms, triggers, and life circumstances. Your personalized care plan may include:

Psychiatric evaluation

Patrick begins with a thorough assessment of your symptoms, medical history, and contributing factors to determine which type of anxiety you have.

Medication management

Patrick may prescribe antidepressants, buspirone, or other evidence-based options and monitor your response over time.

Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques help you recognize patterns of anxious thinking and develop more effective responses to stress and uncertainty.

Lifestyle guidance

Patrick addresses contributing factors like sleep quality, caffeine intake, and stress management as part of your overall care plan.

Contact Life Balance Health to schedule your telehealth anxiety evaluation. Call or book your appointment online today.