Orlando Counseling Specialists

With Thanksgiving behind us and Christmas fast approaching, I am sure you can relate to some of the feelings I am  experiencing.  For example, when “Black Friday” was advertised all over the place, I thought, “Who can get excited about shopping in this economy?  I sure don’t have the money.”  I know that I am not alone.  Many are expereincing what is called  “Recession Depression”.   The recession has magnified such feeling as despair, depression, anxiety, and sadness.  As a licensed mental health counselor, I am finding that the number of people who are experiencing anxiety and panic attacks as well as physical illness related to stress is very high, and most are a consequence of the unpredictability of our economy. 

This is more serious than one might think, as Anxiety Disorders have more physical consequences than any other mood disorder.  It is very important that we pay close attention to the symptoms we have as well as what might be going on with a friend or family member.  Be proactive about getting the help that you  need if you are feeling sad, depressed, or overwhelmed. 

Some of the symptoms of general anxiety include:  restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge, being easily fatigued, difficulty concentrating or mind going blank, irritability, muscle tension and sleep disturbance.  Panic Attack are also common when an individual is overwhelmed and experiencing increased stress.  Symptoms include: palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate, sweating, trembling or shaking, sensations of sharotness of breath or smothering, chest pain, feeling dizzy, and fear of losing control.

Though medication can help to treat anxiety, a good therapist can help provide you with the tools that you need to manage your emotions and work through the issues that are creating your anxiety. With our economy being so unpredictible, I do not think things are going to change any time soon.  But you can learn how to manage your emotions in these trying times and be equipped for whatever else you mihg face in the furture.

Orlando Counseling Specialist and Nancy A. Johnson, M.A., LMHC has made the move to East Orlando/Avalon Park.  East Orlando is a growing community with many families who have a variety of needs.  I am excited to serve the community through my counseling services.  I have a variety of clients, from young to old, who struggle with a variety of issues.  I specialize in working with children, adolescents, teens and family therapy, which is a great need in our community.  There is also a great need to encourage and equip parents of adolescents and teens with the tools to know how best to set healthy boundaries with their children and to build respect and reesponsibility into their lives.  I work on a very affordable sliding scale as the economy has affected everyone, and it is my desire to be available to serve this community in any way that I can.