Finding the Best Treatment for Anxiety

|

Finding the Best Treatment for Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal part of life, but when it becomes excessive or severe, it can have a negative impact on your health and well-being. It can also have an impact on relationships and your ability to lead a fulfilling life. If you or a loved one has anxiety, it is important to find the right treatment. There are many effective medications and other methods to help reduce anxiety.

The first step in finding the best treatment is talking to your healthcare provider. Your provider will work with you to develop a plan that is individualized to your specific needs and preferences. Once your doctor has developed a plan, he or she will monitor you to ensure your medication is being used as recommended. While medications can help control your symptoms, therapy is often the most effective method.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is a type of psychotherapy that helps patients recognize their thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their condition. Learning how to control your thoughts can reduce anxiety. Talking with a mental health professional can also help you identify other disorders that may be causing your symptoms.

Exercise is another effective method for reducing anxiety. Regular workouts can help ease your symptoms as effectively as medication. You can also practice meditation or yoga, which engages your mind and body. Having a regular exercise routine can also improve your sleep, which can help with your anxiety symptoms.

Antidepressants and other psychiatric medications are often prescribed to treat anxiety. These drugs can have side effects, though. Before taking any type of antidepressant, talk to your healthcare provider.

A physical evaluation should also be done to rule out medical conditions that can cause symptoms similar to those of anxiety. For example, a lab test may be needed to rule out heart arrhythmias or a heart condition that can lead to anxiety.

Physical symptoms of anxiety can include sweating, trembling, nausea, and rapid breathing. In the case of panic attacks, the physical symptoms are even more intense.

Other types of medication include beta blockers, which are usually prescribed for high blood pressure or heart problems. Beta-blockers can help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety. They also can reduce the risk of panic attacks.

Benzodiazepines are another class of medications that are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety. Benzodiazepines are short-acting and are effective for sudden anxiety episodes. Typically, they will bring you relief in as little as thirty minutes to an hour. Benzodiazepines are not recommended for long-term use, however.

When your doctor suggests using an antidepressant to manage your anxiety, talk to him or her about other options. Although it may take two to four weeks for an antidepressant to begin working, it can be a useful tool for managing your symptoms.

Anxiety is an extremely common condition. Most people experience it at some point in their lives. However, if you or a loved one has a condition that keeps you from enjoying life to its fullest, it is essential to discuss it with your healthcare provider.