Treatments For Anxiety Disorders

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Treatments For Anxiety Disorders

Psychotherapy and medication are two common treatments for anxiety disorders. To get the best results, work with your health care provider to determine which treatment is right for you. Psychotherapy aims to change harmful thoughts and behavior patterns. Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches clients to change their responses to specific fears. Exposure therapy, which involves facing a feared situation, may be part of the treatment. Both treatments work to reduce the sensitivity to normal anxiety triggers.

Although the cause of anxiety is still unknown, certain factors may contribute to the development of the disorder. Environmental factors, genetics, and brain biology may all play a role. The symptoms of an anxiety disorder are hard to control, resulting in restlessness, tense feelings, and difficulty in performing daily tasks. Some medications and substances can aggravate anxiety symptoms. To rule out these underlying conditions, an individual may need a physical exam and a lab test.

In the past, some anxiety disorders were categorized as obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and acute stress disorder. However, these disorders have been reduced in recent years and are now known as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The symptoms of generalized anxiety are characterized by excessive long-term worry about unspecific objects or events in their lives. Because people with this disorder are often unable to pinpoint the specific cause of their anxiety, treatment involves a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and self-help measures. A balanced diet and active lifestyle will help keep anxiety levels in check.

In some cases, a person suffering from an anxiety disorder may also be suffering from depression. Several studies have shown that depression and anxiety share a common biological vulnerability. Treatment for anxiety can help both conditions. Anxiety attacks are episodes of intense fear or panic. They often occur suddenly and may have a variety of triggers. A panic attack may be triggered by many different situations, including stress, social situations, or even a single traumatic event.

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, treatment for anxiety disorder may involve a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. Some drugs work better for certain anxiety disorders than others, so it is important to consult your health care provider before deciding on the right medication. Treatments for anxiety disorders range from cognitive behavioral therapy to psychotherapy and may include antidepressants. You may need to try several different types of medications until you find one that works best for you.

Practicing meditation and other relaxation techniques can help relieve anxiety symptoms. Exercise is another effective way to reduce stress and anxiety. Getting regular exercise also relieves physical signs. Try to exercise at least 30 minutes a day. Some forms of exercise, including walking or jogging, are particularly effective for this. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can also help you feel relaxed and calmer. Finally, getting enough sleep is essential to the overall health of your body.