Everyone experiences occasional anxiety, and most people quickly recover from it. For instance, you may feel on the edge just before an exam or job interview. However, people with anxiety disorders have more intense and frequent symptoms. Instead of feeling anxious over legitimate reasons, people with anxiety disorders experience anxiety over issues that do not garner such a response.
Fortunately, you have a variety of anxiety disorder treatment options you can explore. Let’s go over them as well as where you can go for anxiety disorder treatment.
Medication
Medications are not curative but can help control your condition. They help improve symptoms, so you can function better. Your doctor may prescribe one or more of the following drugs during the course of your anxiety disorder treatment.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are a standard option for anxiety disorder treatment. These drugs increase the production of neurotransmitters to improve your mood and relieve stress. It can also help manage your depression, which is a common complication of anxiety disorders.
There are several types of antidepressants. The specific one you need depends on the particular anxiety disorder you have. The three common antidepressants are:
- Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs). These prevent the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, so the body can use more.
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). This is an anxiety disorder treatment option that inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, so more are active in the brain.
- Tricyclic antidepressants. These are second-generation medications that block the reabsorption of neurotransmitters but have a high risk of toxicity in the body.
Antidepressants may not take effect immediately, so you have to be patient when using them.
Always consult with your psychiatrist before you make changes or stop taking your prescribed antidepressants. Some common side effects are dry mouth, headaches, insomnia, and diarrhea.
Benzodiazepines
This anxiety disorder medication increases gamma-aminobutyric acid production (GABA)-A receptor to calm your mind. It helps you deal with anxiety, fear, and panic. Some known types of benzodiazepines are clonazepam, lorazepam, and diazepam. Although benzodiazepines can help with symptoms, they are not considered as a first-line treatment. Prolonged use may lead to drug dependency. Other side effects of these medications are drowsiness, exhaustion, and fatigue.
Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers are used to manage high blood pressure but can be used as an anxiety disorder treatment. It can help control your anxiety disorder symptoms, like palpitations, shaking, and trembling. Beta-blockers are often used along with other anxiety medications like benzodiazepines.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a treatment method that includes the help of mental health professionals. Below are some common types of psychotherapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
During CBT or talk therapy, your provider helps you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions and how they influence your actions. Research shows that it is indeed effective as an anxiety disorder treatment. It also helps you learn healthier thinking patterns and better responses to your triggers.
If you have an anxiety disorder, cognitive behavioral therapy may be used alone or with medication. Your doctor will determine what will work best for your condition.
Exposure Therapy
This treatment follows behaviorist principles. Your therapist will present a safe environment for you to face and deal with your fears and triggers. In the course of your treatment, your provider will expose you to the triggers until you unlearn the associated anxieties. You will also do relaxation exercises and use imagery during your therapy.
Lifestyle Changes
Changes in lifestyle alone do not control your mental health condition’s symptoms, but they make a difference. Being physically active dramatically relieves stress and improves your mood. Avoiding alcoholic drinks and recreational drugs will also help as these substances may worsen your anxiety and depression. Sleep properly and eat well, so you’ll feel rested and energetic throughout the day.
Anxiety Disorder Treatment In New York And Connecticut
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions affecting people worldwide. It can severely affect your quality of life and overall health if you don’t seek treatment. Fortunately, you have several options available. Early detection and effective treatment can help mitigate its complications and improve your daily life function.
Here at Psy-Visions in New York and Connecticut, we aim to help you find the best treatment for your mental health issues, including anxiety disorders. With the help of our board-certified and experienced psychiatrist, Dr. Mark Stracks, you will be guaranteed to receive tailored and comprehensive care for your needs.
You may reach our New York clinic at (718) 887-2918 or our Connecticut clinic at (203) 405-1745 for inquiries on how we can help you. Alternatively, you may use this secure online form to schedule your visit with us. We are looking forward to helping you live the life you deserve!
