Dealing With Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety that is chronic and disrupts your daily routine is not normal. Doctors can prescribe talk therapy as well as medication to ease anxiety.
Therapy typically consists of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as well as exposure therapy and relaxation techniques. There are a range of medications that treat anxiety-related symptoms, including modern antidepressants.
Treatment
Being anxious or scared occasionally is a normal response to stress. Anxiety disorders, however can cause excessive and persistent feelings of fear or anxiety that are usually not in line with the situation. They can also impact people's daily activities and relationships. Medications can help relieve some of the symptoms. To fully recover, patients need to learn better methods to manage and deal with their anxiety.
Patients suffering from anxiety disorders can receive treatment from a health care provider or psychiatrist (a medical professional who specializes in mental health) psychologist, social worker or counselor. The health professional will inquire about the signs and medical history and may also conduct physical examination. They may also request tests in the lab to rule out other illnesses which could be causing symptoms.
Talk therapy or psychotherapy and medication are two treatments for anxiety disorders. The type of treatment you receive and the duration will depend on the disorder, its severity and how long you have been experiencing it. The most common type of talk therapy for anxiety is cognitive behavior therapy, or CBT. This method assists people in recognizing negative thoughts patterns and change them. It can also help people learn relaxation techniques and exposure reactions to lessen anxiety.
Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is another form of talk therapy that can be utilized to help with anxiety. This therapy can be helpful for those suffering from anxiety that is linked to their relationships, for example, social anxiety disorder or fears. Interpersonal therapy helps people find healthy ways to express their feelings.
Antidepressants, beta blockers, and benzodiazepines can all help with anxiety symptoms. A doctor will prescribe the most effective medication for a person's condition, and will discuss any the side effects. It is essential to not stop taking medication prescribed by a doctor unless they have been instructed to. In some cases abrupt withdrawal from certain medications can cause withdrawal symptoms. These include brain zaps which feel like shocks.
Alternative solutions to anxiety include meditation, yoga, and self-management strategies such as the reduction of stress and good sleeping habits. People with anxiety might benefit from joining a support group for people with similar issues that can provide empathy, understanding and shared experiences. It is also recommended to stay away from any other stimulants that can make anxiety symptoms worse. It is also important to get enough rest and eat an appropriate diet. Regular exercise and spending time in the company of friends can reduce stress.
Signs and symptoms
There are people who be anxious at times, like when they begin the new job or take an exam. If anxiety continues to be a problem and begins to interfere with the daily routine, then help is needed. Anxiety disorders are defined by feelings of fear or panic that are out-of-proportion to the risk. They can be difficult to control and can last for a long period of time. Anxiety disorder can cause people to avoid situations and places that trigger their symptoms.
People with anxiety disorders often undergo therapy and take medication or counseling. The most popular treatment for anxiety disorders is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps people identify and alter the behavior and thoughts that cause their symptoms.
Other medications can also help ease anxiety symptoms. For instance, beta-blockers, which are used to treat high blood pressure, may reduce heartbeats that are rapid and other physical signs of anxiety. Antidepressants, which are typically prescribed to treat depression can also aid in reducing anxiety. Examples include SSRIs, like escitalopram (Lexapro) and SNRIs, like duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor). These benzodiazepines may be beneficial for people suffering from anxiety. They can have severe adverse side effects and can lead to addiction. Examples are diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin).
Education is essential for recovery. For instance, knowing about the physiology of the "flight-or-fight" response, which is normal and assists us in dealing with real or perceived threats, can help to dispel myths that could be causing anxiety. It's important to know that certain medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism or heart disease may trigger anxiety symptoms. Patients with these conditions should undergo a thorough physical exam to rule out any potential issues.
A healthy diet, getting plenty of rest and staying active can all help to reduce anxiety symptoms. Avoiding the use of alcohol and other recreational drugs is also a good idea, because they can cause a flare-up. Smoking can make the condition worse. Talking to family and friends in person and online, can also help.
Diagnosis
Everyone experiences anxiety and fears at times. These are normal human emotions that help us deal with danger. However, when these feelings become constant and intense, preventing a person from living a full and fulfilling life and living a full life, it's time to seek professional help. A mental health professional can determine if you have anxiety disorder and recommend treatment.
A healthcare provider will ask you questions regarding your symptoms and conduct an examination of your body to determine anxiety disorders. He or she will be looking for information on when the anxiety symptoms began, how long they have been in existence and how severe. A doctor may inquire if your symptoms have affected your daily routine. Many mental health issues, such as depression or post-traumatic disorder, occur in conjunction with anxiety disorders. A doctor might inquire about any other psychological issues that you have experienced.
There is no one test that can be used to diagnose an anxiety disorder. A medical professional can rule out other causes of symptoms by performing tests for blood or urine and asking you about your family history. A mental health professional may also utilize questionnaires and tests that are standard to evaluate your anxiety level and make a diagnosis.
The majority of people suffering from anxiety issues benefit from a combination treatment that includes psychotherapy, or "talk therapy" as well as medication. Talk therapy is a type of treatment called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT teaches you a new method of thinking, reacting and act in order to feel less anxious. Medications such as antianxiety drugs, beta-blockers and certain antidepressants can help you manage your symptoms.
The symptoms of anxiety disorders include a persistent feeling of anxiety, tight muscles and difficulty concentrating. Some people also have symptoms like trembling, breathlessness and dizziness. A person suffering from anxiety disorder will avoid situations or activities that make them anxious. This kind of avoidance can be extremely frustrating for a person and can result in other problems like a poor performance at work and relationships.
Anxiety is normal in children, but children usually outgrow their anxieties and worries as they get older. Anxiety disorders are more common among adults who continue experience anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety disorders are treatable however, you must be willing to seek treatment and be patient. It takes time to find the right combination of treatments that will work for you. The reward is a fulfilling and healthy life. Getting treatment early is key, because anxiety can get worse in time if not addressed. You can overcome this condition and live the life you desire by receiving the proper treatment and care. For more information on how to find the right treatment for you, go to our Anxiety Resources page.