How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Everyone feels anxious every now and then, and there may be reasons to be concerned. People suffering from GAD are constantly in a state of anxiety that can affect their relationships, work or school.

GAD can be caused by trauma, genetics or chronic medical conditions. Treatment options include medication and psychotherapy.

Medications

It is important to talk with your doctor about the benefits and potential side negative effects of GAD medications. Generally, the first medications that are tried for anxiety disorders are antidepressants in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) classes. These medications can decrease anxiety and can also help improve depression or other mental health issues. These medicines are usually used for a short period of time and are often combined with psychotherapy.

SSRIs work by blocking presynaptic serotonin transporters so that serotonin can be released for release. SNRIs inhibit the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in order to increase neurotransmitter supply. Both have been proven to be effective in treating anxiety disorders, including GAD. They are frequently the preferred first-line natural treatment for anxiety and depression for psychiatric disorders, such as panic disorder and major depression (MDD). The drugs in these classes include escitalopram sertraline, fluoxetine, duloxetine and venlafaxine. In addition, agomelatine, a melatonin-1/melatonin-2 agonist and 5-HT2C receptor antagonist, has been found to be efficacious in treating anxiety disorders, although it is more commonly used for the treatment of depression.

It's important to remember that the majority of people suffering from anxiety disorders don't respond to initial medication treatments. It could take between four and six weeks before symptoms start to improve, which is why it's essential to adhere to your treatment plan. If you don't feel better after several months, talk to your doctor about changing the dosage or switching medications.

Certain antidepressants from the past, as well as monoamine oxide (MAOI) inhibitors are sometimes effective in treating anxiety disorders. These medications are less effective than SSRIs or SNRIs. They are more likely to cause sedation, and could have more serious side effects than the more recent drugs.

There is limited research on guanfacine or clonidine as a treatment for anxiety. Nevertheless, many studies indicate that these drugs are more effective than placebos. Psychotherapy can improve treatment adherence and decrease reported side effects.

Talking therapy

GAD is a common mental health issue however, it can be difficult to treat. There are several treatment options. Medications are often employed to alleviate anxiety symptoms, while self-help techniques and talking therapy can help manage symptoms over time. Support groups are available to people with GAD.

Everyone experiences anxiety at times, but those with GAD have an unstoppable anxiety that affects their daily activities. The symptoms can include restlessness, difficulty concentrating on tasks, muscle tension, and an overall feeling of being on edge. Worries are usually focused on daily issues like family health, work obligations and minor concerns like car repairs, chores and appointments.

People suffering from GAD might not be able to pinpoint the cause of their anxiety, and the feelings persist for at minimum six months. They may avoid situations that trigger anxiety. The symptoms of this disorder tend to be noticed in childhood or adolescence. Symptoms may worsen in times of stress or illness, and may even persist into adulthood.

Certain people are more susceptible to developing GAD than others, but there isn't a definitive cause. Some theories suggest it could be due to a genetic predisposition or a combination of factors such as temperament and environmental influences. A traumatizing experience or life altering event, such as divorce or the death of a loved one could trigger.

There are many different ways to treat GAD however a combination of treatments is the most effective. Talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the best way to manage your anxiety. This type of therapy helps you identify and alter negative thought patterns which can cause anxiety. It can help you learn to face your fears instead of avoiding them, in a secure setting.

Making the effort to reduce anxiety can help lead a healthier and happier life. You can utilize meditation or exercise to calm your body and mind. You can Anxiety go away without Treatment also enjoy time with your family and friends to avoid feeling isolated. You can also try relaxation techniques like guided visualization or deep breathing. You can join a support group for anxiety to gain compassion and understanding from others who have had similar experiences.

Self-help groups

Every person experiences nervousness or anxiety at some point in their lives. These feelings are normal. However, people with GAD are constantly battling with excessive and unrealistic worries that they cannot control. They think terrible things could happen and their anxiety affects their lives. The symptoms last for at least six months and are not caused by a medical condition.

There are many ways to treat GAD. The first option is psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," a type that involves speaking with a mental health professional like psychiatrist or psychologist. It can help you identify and change unhealthy thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Psychotherapy can teach you strategies to cope, like stress management or relaxation techniques.

Another approach to treat GAD is through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps you recognize and address your faulty thought patterns. It will also help you gain control over your worrying and gradually return to activities that you've avoided because of anxiety. CBT can be paired with medications to enhance the effectiveness of treatment.

Medication is typically the most effective way to treat GAD. Treatments based on the selective serotonin reuptake inhibit (SSRI) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibition (SNRI) like duloxetine and escitalopram are frequently first-line treatments. These antidepressants can help reduce anxiety by changing the balance of chemicals in your brain.

Self-help groups are a good alternative for those who are unable to afford a professional therapist or don't wish to commit to talk therapy. These groups are regularly scheduled and offer assistance to those suffering from the same disorder. Some groups are led by professionals while others are self-organized and informal. The average meeting lasts for one and a half hours and participants discuss their experiences with each other. Some groups charge a fee while others don't.

Genetics, temperament, and environmental factors are all factors which can cause GAD. For instance children may experience anxiety if parents have the condition. A traumatic incident can trigger anxiety. People who suffer from certain illnesses like an overactive thyroid gland are more likely to suffer from the condition.

Psychotherapy

The most effective psychotherapy for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It teaches you specific techniques that can help you manage your worries. CBT can also help you gradually return to activities you had avoided due to anxiety symptoms. As time passes anxiety levels decrease as you build on your accomplishments. It is important to work closely with your mental health professional to ensure that you're adhering to the home treatment for anxiety attack plan and not using supplements or herbal remedies to treat your anxiety, since they can interact with your medications.

In a recent systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials, CBT was associated with both long-term and acute efficacy and acceptance for treating generalized anxiety disorder in adults. CBT treatments like cue-controlling, alternative self-statements and relaxation training were all proven to be efficient. Other psychotherapies, including interpersonal therapy and schematherapy, were also proven to be highly effective.

Psychodynamic therapy can help you recognize negative patterns of behavior that are rooted in your past experiences. It involves open-ended questions and free association to discover unconscious patterns that contribute to your anxiety. Interpersonal therapy can aid in improving your relationships with others.

Schema therapy helps you overcome negative thoughts and behaviors that are connected to childhood traumas. It is often used to address unresolved childhood traumas, however it can also be beneficial in treating anxiety disorders. In schema therapy you share your experiences with your therapist, while they guide your eye movements to process the memories in a manner that doesn't create anxiety symptoms.

Anxiety can be a crippling issue and it's essential to seek treatment as soon as you can. With the appropriate treatment, you'll learn to manage your symptoms and lead a an active, healthy life. If you're suffering from anxiety, call Active Path Mental Health today for more information about our services and to make an initial appointment. Our offices are located in Oregon and Washington, and we're here to help you get control of your life.