😟 Anxiety Disorders: What Families Should Know😟

A Guide for Families in Green Bay, De Pere, and Brown County, Wisconsin

Anxiety is something everyone experiences at times. It can show up before a big event, during stressful life transitions, or when facing uncertainty. But for many individuals and families across Green Bay, De Pere, and Brown County, anxiety becomes more than occasional worry.

When anxiety is constant, overwhelming, or begins to interfere with daily life, it may be an anxiety disorder.

At Bay Psychiatry of Wisconsin, we support children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety with a compassionate and personalized approach. Understanding what anxiety looks like is often the first step toward meaningful support and healing.

What Is an Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in the United States. They affect people of all ages and backgrounds, including many families here in Northeast Wisconsin.

An anxiety disorder is more than feeling nervous. It involves persistent fear, worry, or physical symptoms that impact day to day functioning.

Common signs of anxiety include:

• Excessive or uncontrollable worry

• Restlessness or feeling on edge

• Difficulty concentrating

• Irritability

• Sleep disturbances

• Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or a racing heart

• Avoidance of certain situations or activities

For children and teens in Green Bay and De Pere schools, anxiety may show up as school avoidance, emotional outbursts, or difficulty separating from caregivers.

Common Types of Anxiety Disorders

Understanding the different types of anxiety can help families recognize what their loved one may be experiencing.

1️⃣ Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

GAD involves persistent and excessive worry about everyday life, such as school, work, health, or family.

Individuals with GAD often feel like their mind is constantly running through worst case scenarios, even when there is no immediate threat.

2️⃣ Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is characterized by sudden episodes of intense fear, often referred to as panic attacks.

Symptoms can include:

• Rapid heart rate

• Shortness of breath

• Chest tightness

• Dizziness

• Feeling detached or out of control

These episodes can feel frightening and unpredictable, leading individuals to avoid places or situations where panic has occurred before.

3️⃣ Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety involves a strong fear of being judged, embarrassed, or negatively evaluated in social situations.

This can impact:

• School participation

• Work interactions

• Friendships and relationships

For teens and adults in Brown County, social anxiety may lead to isolation or avoidance of important life experiences.

4️⃣ Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is commonly seen in children but can also affect adolescents.

It involves intense distress when separated from a parent or caregiver. Children may have difficulty attending school, sleeping alone, or being away from home.

How Anxiety Impacts Families

Anxiety does not just affect one person. It often impacts the entire family system.

Parents may notice:

• Increased reassurance seeking

• Difficulty with routines

• Emotional dysregulation

• Avoidance of activities or responsibilities

It can be challenging to know how to respond. Many families in Green Bay and De Pere find themselves trying to support their child while also feeling unsure of what will truly help.

The most important thing to remember is that anxiety is not a character flaw or a lack of effort. It is a real and treatable condition.

Treatment Options for Anxiety

The good news is that anxiety is highly treatable.

At Bay Psychiatry of Wisconsin, we provide supportive therapy with medication management, tailored to each individual’s needs.

Treatment may include:

Supportive Therapy

Therapy helps individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while learning practical coping skills to manage anxiety.

Medication Management

For some individuals, medication can help regulate symptoms and create a more stable baseline, making it easier to engage in therapy and daily life.

Lifestyle and Behavioral Support

Small changes in sleep, nutrition, movement, and daily structure can significantly improve anxiety symptoms.

Our approach is collaborative, meaning patients and families are involved in every step of the treatment plan.

When to Seek Help

It may be time to seek professional support if anxiety:

• Interferes with school, work, or relationships

• Leads to avoidance of normal activities

• Causes frequent emotional distress

• Impacts sleep or physical health

• Feels overwhelming or constant

Early support can make a significant difference, especially for children and adolescents.

Mental Health Support in Green Bay, De Pere, and Brown County

At Bay Psychiatry of Wisconsin, we proudly serve individuals and families across:

• Green Bay

• De Pere

• Brown County

• Northeast Wisconsin

We offer:

• Supportive therapy with medication management

• Anxiety and mood disorder treatment

• ADHD evaluations and care

• Child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry

• In person and virtual appointments

Our goal is to provide care that feels accessible, supportive, and effective for real life.

You Do Not Have to Face Anxiety Alone

If your loved one seems constantly on edge, avoids certain situations, or struggles with overwhelming worry, you are not alone.

Help is available, and healing is possible.

With the right support, individuals can learn to manage anxiety, build confidence, and return to the activities and relationships that matter most.

👉 Schedule an appointment today

Bay Psychiatry of Wisconsin🌐 www.baypsychiatryofwisconsin.com