Evidence-Based Anxiety Treatment in Colorado

Living with severe anxiety can feel like being trapped in a house where the walls are constantly closing in, while everyone else insists the space is wide open.  

When anxiety hits hard, it can rob you of your breath, your ability to think clearly, and your trust in your own body. 

Have you ever had your chest tightened for no reason in the middle of the night? 

Maybe your thoughts spiral so fast you can’t focus at work?  

Or maybe you’ve canceled plans over and over because you’re too overwhelmed to explain why? 

You’re not lazy. You’re not broken. And you’re definitely not alone.  

Because anxiety may be part of your story, but it doesn’t have to be the whole thing. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety (social or otherwise), our experts in Denver, Boulder, and Westminster have devised a comprehensive, evidence-based anxiety treatment that goes far beyond surface-level solutions.  

From personalized therapy and medication management to cutting-edge options like TMS and Spravato, our anxiety care is built to help you reclaim your calm, your clarity, and your life. 

Understanding Anxiety Treatment Approaches 

The landscape of anxiety treatment has transformed dramatically over the past decade.  Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all approaches or endless medication trials. Today's evidence-based treatments recognize that anxiety is a biopsychosocial condition.  

Simply put, it involves biological, psychological, and social factors that all need attention. According to recent data from the American Psychiatric Association, 43% of adults report feeling more anxious in 2024 than the previous year, with 77% citing economic concerns and 73% worried about current events. 

Types of Anxiety Disorders  

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent worry about everyday life that feels uncontrollable 
• Panic Disorder: Sudden, intense panic attacks with physical symptoms 
• Social Anxiety: Overwhelming fear of social situations and judgment 
• Specific Phobias: Intense fear of particular objects or situations 
• Health Anxiety: Excessive worry about having or developing a serious illness 
• OCD and Related Conditions: Intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors 

12 Calming Techniques for Anxiety Attacks

Traditional Anxiety Treatments 

Traditional Approaches 

Traditional anxiety treatments have their place and can be highly effective for many people: 

1. Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) remains the gold standard, with studies showing it's as effective as medication for many anxiety disorders.  
2. Medication Management: SSRIs and other medications can provide relief, though finding the right medication often takes time.  
3. Strengths and Limitations: While traditional treatments help many people, about 30-40% of patients don't achieve full remission with standard approaches alone.  

Integrative Medicine 

Anxiety treatment doesn’t always require medication.  

"Mental Health is More than Meds" and it can combine the best of both worlds: 

• Evidence-based traditional treatments 
• Innovative interventions 
• Holistic wellness support 
• Personalized treatment algorithms 
• Continuous outcome monitoring 

The Role of Lifestyle Medicine in Anxiety Treatment 

Nutritional Psychiatry 

The gut-brain connection is real, and what you eat affects how you feel: 

• Anxiety and Gut Health: 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut. 
• Anti-Inflammatory Diets: Reducing inflammation can decrease anxiety symptoms. 
• Supplementation Guidance: Targeted nutrients like magnesium, omega-3s, and B-vitamins. 
• Caffeine and Anxiety: Understanding your personal tolerance and making adjustments. 

Exercise as Medicine 

Movement is powerful medicine for anxiety: 

• Types of Exercise for Anxiety: Aerobic exercise, yoga, and strength training all help 
• Optimal Frequency and Intensity: Even 20 minutes of walking can reduce anxiety 
• Movement Therapy: Dance, tai chi, and other expressive movements 
• Yoga and Mindfulness: Combining physical practice with mental training 

Sleep and Anxiety 

Poor sleep and anxiety create a vicious cycle: 

• Bidirectional Relationship: Anxiety disrupts sleep, poor sleep worsens anxiety 
• Sleep Hygiene Protocols: Creating optimal conditions for restorative rest 
• Treating Sleep Disorders: Addressing sleep apnea, restless legs, and other issues 
• Circadian Rhythm Optimization: Using light therapy and consistent schedules 

Here’s a quick sleep hygiene checklist:

 

 

 

 

 

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Anxiety-related Resources and Support (in Colorado) 

Denver Resources 

• Denver Health Behavioral Services: 24/7 crisis support at 303-602-7700 

• WellPower: Colorado's largest community mental health center 

• UCHealth Behavioral Services: Comprehensive programs including virtual IOP 

Boulder Resources 

• Boulder Community Health: Inpatient and outpatient services at Della Cava Medical Pavilion 

• Mental Health Partners: Walk-in crisis center at 3180 Airport Road 

• WellMind Connection: Free navigation services at 303-441-1300 

Westminster Resources 

• West Pines Behavioral Hospital: 24/7 acute care and anxiety programs 

• Jefferson Center for Mental Health: Integrated behavioral health services 

• Colorado Crisis Line: 988 or 1-844-493-8255 (available 24/7 statewide) 

Additional Resources 

• Anxiety Vs Irritability: What's the Difference? 

• Gender Bias in Anxiety that Leads to Misdiagnosis 

• 7 Proven Benefits of TMS for Treating Anxiety 

How Does Anxiety Treatment Look Like at Axis Integrated Mental Health? 

Comprehensive Assessment Process 

Your journey at Axis begins with our thorough 60-minute initial evaluation. Unlike rushed 15-minute medication checks, we take time to understand: 

• Your complete mental health history 

• Current symptoms and triggers 

• Medical conditions and medications 

• Lifestyle factors affecting anxiety 

• Previous treatment experiences 

• Personal goals and values 

Treatment Planning 

Based on your assessment, we create a collaborative treatment plan that might include: 

• Primary therapy modality selection 

• Medication evaluation if appropriate 

• Innovative treatment options 

• Lifestyle interventions 

• Support system engagement 

• Progress monitoring schedule 

Your Treatment Team 

At Axis, you're never just a number. Your care team may include: 

• Primary Therapist: Your main point of contact for therapy 

• Psychiatric Provider: For medication management and medical oversight 

• Care Coordinator: Helping navigate insurance and scheduling 

• Specialty Providers: TMS technicians, ketamine specialists, or group facilitators 

How Can You Get Started with Anxiety Treatment in Colorado? 

Taking the first step is often the hardest, but we make it as easy as possible: 

1. Scheduling Your Consultation: Call 720-400-7025 or book online 
2. Insurance Verification: Our team handles paperwork. We accept most major plans. 
3. Preparing for Your Visit: Gather medical records and list current medications 

Your first visit sets the foundation for successful treatment: 

• Initial Appointment: Check-in, assessment, treatment discussion, and planning 

• Treatment Recommendations: Clear explanation of all options with pros and cons 

• Timeline Discussion: Realistic expectations for improvement milestones 

• Financial Planning: Understanding costs and maximizing mental health insurance benefits 

Anxiety doesn't have to control your life.  

With comprehensive, integrated treatment that addresses all aspects of your well-being, you can find lasting relief and rediscover joy in daily life.  

FAQs 

Q1: What anxiety treatment options are covered by insurance?  

Q2: How is integrative anxiety treatment different from traditional approaches?  

Q3: Can I get anxiety treatment without medication?  

Q4: What if antidepressants haven't worked for my anxiety?  

Q5: How long does anxiety treatment typically take?