Treatments For Anxiety Disorders
A person with anxiety disorders may be able to reduce symptoms by self-management techniques such as relaxation, exercise and sleeping. If these methods aren't working, there are medical treatments available.
Your health care provider may ask you questions regarding your symptoms and conduct an exam. They will determine if there is a physical cause of your symptoms.
Psychotherapy
In addition to identifying and treating the specific symptoms of your anxiety disorder therapy can also help you learn to cope with the condition and change negative thoughts and beliefs that are contributing to or worsening your symptoms. Psychotherapy can be beneficial alone or in combination with medication. Psychotherapy for anxiety disorders comprises cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and various other treatments.
CBT and exposure therapy are aimed specifically at those suffering from anxiety disorders, using treatment strategies that have proven to be effective in studies. These treatments aid patients comprehend how their thoughts and behaviors contribute to their anxiety. They also help to identify and challenge the distorted beliefs that cause anxiety and decrease physical discomfort caused by anxiety.
Your therapist will help you find solutions to your issues and anxiety. They will help you learn relaxation techniques and other strategies for coping like mindfulness meditation, to help manage the physical discomfort caused by anxiety and panic attacks. Therapy is typically conducted in the form of 12 or more sessions that last for about an hour each.
During your therapy your therapist will be evaluating your progress on a regular basis using a standardized rating system like the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale or Ham-A. They will also track your symptom clusters, including mood, pacing and worrying, sleep problems, concentration and memories physical sensations such as sweating, tingling, and tension and avoidance behaviors like avoiding activities or places where they may trigger anxious reactions.
The use of medications is widespread to treat anxiety disorders, and generally are well-tolerated. If you are not getting the desired results from the medication you've been prescribed, your doctor might recommend switching it. Antidepressants are the most frequently prescribed medications for treating anxiety, specifically SSRIs like citalopram (Celexa), Escitalopram (Lexapro) and fluoxetine (Prozac) and SNRIs such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Venlafaxine (Effexor). Anticholinergics such as clonidine (Catapress), and alprazolam, (Xanax), may also be employed to treat anxiety.
Medication
If anxiety symptoms affect your daily functioning, you may require medication as part of your treatment plan. The type of medicine you take is determined by the disorder you are suffering from and the severity of your symptoms. Your doctor will determine the most effective treatment for you.
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy is the mainstay of a treatment plan to treat anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other types talk therapies, are effective and address the root causes behind anxiety, rather than concealing the symptoms. Therapy helps you recognize and overcome the irrational thoughts and negative beliefs that cause your anxiety. Your therapist will help you to overcome these thoughts and teach you how to manage anxiety.
Medication can be used in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat anxiety, however, it is not a substitute for it. If you suffer from mild anxiety disorder, your physician might recommend that you try lifestyle changes prior to attempting medications. If you are suffering from extreme anxiety, your physician will probably prescribe a short course of benzodiazepines that will calm the mind and body. Examples of benzodiazepines are diazepam, lorazepam, and clonazep.
Antidepressants are also helpful in treating certain anxiety disorders. These drugs are believed to affect neurotransmitters which influence mood in the brain. Citalopram, sertraline and fluoxetine are antidepressants that can be used to combat anxiety. In some instances your doctor may suggest a combination of antidepressants and benzodiazepines. These drugs are most effective when taken every day.
In certain instances, your doctor might also think about using off-label medicines for the treatment of anxiety disorders. These are medicines that are not approved for use in treating anxiety by the FDA but have demonstrated efficacy during clinical trials. Some of the drugs that have been prescribed off-label in the treatment of anxiety include quetiapine and agomelatine.
Regular exercise and a balanced diet can boost your mood. Eat a balanced diet, that includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, as well as lean cuts of meat. It is also essential to get enough sleep to feel rested. Avoid caffeine and nicotine as they can increase anxiety. Moderation is essential if you must drink alcohol. If you are suffering from chronic stress, a support group is a great way to talk about your feelings.
Complementary therapies
In addition to the traditional medicines, there are a number of alternative therapies that can be used to treat anxiety disorders. They could include herbal remedies and dietary changes. These remedies require more research however many people report that they ease their symptoms. It is, however, essential to consult a medical expert before attempting any of these alternatives. Certain herbs can trigger serious side effects when used with prescription medications.
Anxiety is the natural response to stress. However, it can become extreme in time. Patients with severe anxiety experience a combination physical and mental symptoms like heart palpitations and headaches. They might also experience stomach upset fatigue, fatigue, and muscle tension. These symptoms can be very debilitating and affect your daily routine. It is essential to seek treatment for anxiety disorders as soon as you can. The first step is to consult your primary care physician. He or she will be able check for any indications of underlying medical conditions that could cause anxiety.
Psychotherapy is an effective treatment for anxiety. It helps you recognize and address the irrational beliefs and negative distortions that contribute to anxious thoughts. It can help you learn to relax and see situations in a different more relaxed and less frightening way. Therapy can also help you deal with your fears, and improve your problem-solving skills.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), while there are many types of therapy CBT is the one that has been most thoroughly studied. It can be carried out on its own or in support groups with other patients with anxiety disorders. The duration of therapy is contingent on the type and severity. Most patients see improvement after 8 to 10 sessions of therapy.
In addition to therapy, there are many ways to reduce anxiety. Make sure you get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking and caffeine, both of which can worsen your anxiety. It is also a good idea to exercise regularly, which can improve your mood and help manage stress. Many people also benefit from acupuncture, massage and the use of hypnosis.
Lifestyle changes
Anxiety disorders can be crippling, and can impact the ability of a person to study, work, or engage in other activities. There are many treatments available, including psychotherapy and pharmacotherapies. Alternative treatments such as CAM and self-help techniques as well as lifestyle changes can also be employed to lessen anxiety symptoms.
Knowledge is power, and learning about the causes of your anxiety is essential in overcoming it. Anxiety can be caused by the body's natural 'flight-or-fight' response, which is intended to protect you in times of danger. However, your anxiety symptoms are inappropriately triggered by situations which aren't dangerous. Education and exposure therapy are effective treatments that can assist you in controlling your anxiety.
Exercise, healthy eating and enough sleep are essential for overall well-being and can reduce anxiety. Getting enough sleep can be a challenge for those who suffer from anxiety, but making sure to get 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night is essential. A balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help reduce anxiety. Regular eating is crucial, as skipping meals can lead to dips in blood sugar levels which can trigger jitters as well as feelings of anxiousness.
Meditation and mindfulness can help you relax and reduce anxiety. A 2010 study found that regular practice of mindfulness meditation helps reduce depression and anxiety symptoms. Yoga, which combines breathing exercises and poses, is a different relaxation method. A study conducted in 2022 revealed that yoga improves sleep quality, which can be vital to reduce anxiety symptoms.
Support groups are a great way to meet other people who are experiencing anxiety and to gain knowledge about how to manage it. In most cases, these groups organize face-to-face meetings to discuss ways to manage anxiety and offer support. Ask your doctor for a referral, or look online for local support groups.
If you are suffering from anxiety, it's crucial to work with medical specialists who are licensed and have a specialization in this area of medicine. It is also important to choose one who is dedicated to providing the best quality treatment and is able to provide a precise, assessed diagnosis and treatment options. The California Center for Functional Medicine (CCFM) is a virtual health transformation service that is based on a membership that combines you with a collaborative Functional Medicine practitioner and nutritionist to address the root causes of anxiety.