There are several options in the treatment of anxiety disorders. A treatment may consist of behavioral therapy, dietary change, medication and nutritional supplementation. MedicineNet.com states that sufferers of anxiety disorders are often referred to a psychiatrist or psychologist if their disorder does not involve an underlying physical illness. They further add that a combination of medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy is often done to treat symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
Here are some of the most common anxiety treatment options available for people suffering from generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and other anxiety problems:
1. Cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety disorders. Recognizing the triggers of a panic attack, or identifying the root cause of an anxiety attack can be part of cognitive behavioral therapy treatment programs. This type of treatment allows the sufferer to work with a licensed professional to identify the troublesome thoughts, behaviors and patterns to see where they may be behaving in an irrational or inappropriate way.
2. Medication. Some prescription medicines have been proven to help in alleviating the symptoms of anxiety disorders. A type of tranquilizing drugs known as benzodiazepines, are usually prescribed for anxiety disorders. Benzodiazepines include drugs such as BuSpar, Librium, Xanax and Valium.
3. Prescribing Antidepressants. Depression often accompanies anxiety disorders. In some cases, alleviating the depression helps reduce most symptoms of anxiety disorders. Antidepressants, such as Paxil and Effexor, help reduce stress and enhance the disposition of a person.
4. Changes in Lifestyle. Maintaining a regular exercise regimen and knowing how to handle stress in a healthy way will greatly help a person overcome the symptoms of anxiety disorder. Chronic stress can be avoided by doing cardiovascular exercise routines such as yoga, pilates, and tai chi. These exercises improve oxygen and blood circulation and help a person relax. Practicing meditation regularly is another effective relaxation method.
5. Nutritional Supplements. Nutritional Supplements such as Valerian extract, lavender, and chamomile can aid persons who have difficulty sleeping or calming down. These supplements are most suited for people with mild anxiety disorder symptoms and who only experience brief episodes of anxiety attacks.
6. Dietary changes. Eating certain types of food can increase or reduce the risk of anxiety attacks or tension. Eating too many sugary foods can increase the heart rate and make it difficult to concentrate, thereby aggravating some of the symptoms of anxiety. Calming foods such as milk, oats, lentils and yogurt can help keep energy levels stable and reduce the risk of an anxiety attack. Making minor dietary changes on a regular basis often accompanies anxiety treatment programs.
There may not be a definitive cure or solution for anxiety disorders but there are several treatment options to diminish the effects of anxiety disorders. It is important for a person afflicted with anxiety disorder to work with a mental health professional in crafting a suitable treatment plan for immediate and long-lasting results.
If you’ve ever suffered from anxiety when vacationing or traveling, there is hope. Successful non-pharmaceutical approaches are emerging to help you to free yourself from the unsettling thoughts that can lead to panic attacks.