How to Cope With Anxiety
Anxiety is normal to feel occasionally, but if you experience constant and intense worry or fear about everyday things, it can affect your life. It can also lead to depression and a low quality of life.
If you suffer from anxiety, there are many different types of treatment that can help manage it. Your doctor will work with you to find a way of treating it that works for you and your lifestyle.
Medications can help relieve some of the symptoms of anxiety, such as a rapid heartbeat, shaking and trembling. These medicines are called beta-blockers, and they may be used in combination with other treatments to help you feel more relaxed.
Antidepressants and benzodiazepines can also be helpful. These medications can reduce your feelings of fear and worry and may help you cope better with your daily routines. They can be taken by mouth or inhale, depending on your specific needs. They are usually prescribed by your doctor and can be expensive, so it is important to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Psychotherapy is also a popular form of treatment for anxiety disorders. This involves a series of sessions where you and your therapist work together to change the way you think about things that trigger your anxiety. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is the most common type of therapy used.
Other forms of psychotherapy include exposure therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Both can be effective in helping you cope with your anxiety.
Exercise, relaxation techniques and a healthy diet can all help to reduce your anxiety. Make sure you get enough sleep so you feel refreshed in the morning.
Your GP can refer you to a psychiatrist or mental health nurse for further assessment and treatment, if needed. The doctor will use a number of tests to diagnose your condition and will recommend medication, therapies or other treatments as appropriate.
Anxiety is a complex disorder with a wide range of symptoms that can be hard to control. It can impact your life and relationships.
Symptoms of anxiety can vary from person to person, but they tend to start during childhood or teen years and last into adulthood. They can include persistent worrying, fears that are out of proportion to the danger they cause or excessive panic attacks.
People with an anxiety disorder often have trouble with the social aspects of their lives, including making friends and going to work. They may also find it difficult to concentrate or have memory problems.
Anxiety can increase your risk of other physical illnesses, such as heart disease or diabetes. This can be because your anxiety can make it harder to deal with a physical problem or illness.
You can treat your anxiety with a combination of medicines, lifestyle changes and psychotherapy. These can take time to work but will help you feel better.
Medication can reduce your anxiety and help you cope with stressful situations, but they can also have negative side effects. If you are taking medication, remember to keep up your therapy appointments and complete any assignments your therapist gives you.