How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Everyone is anxious now and then - and there are reasons to be worried. However, those who suffer from GAD suffer from an ongoing anxiety-like state that can affect their school, work and relationships.
GAD can be caused by genetics, traumatic experiences or chronic medical ailments. Psychotherapy and medication are two options for treatment.
Medicines
A number of medications are used to treat GAD, and it is a good idea to consult your physician about the benefits and effects of these drugs. 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 drugs are effective in reducing anxiety and may help with depression and other mental health conditions. These medications are usually taken for a short period of time and are usually combined with psychotherapy.
SSRIs block presynaptic transporters of serotonin so that it is ready for release. SNRIs inhibit reuptakes of norepinephrine, dopamine and other neurotransmitters to increase access to neurotransmitters. Both have been shown effective in treating anxiety disorders including GAD. They are often used as the first-line treatment for psychiatric conditions such as panic disorder or major depressive disorder. These include escitalopram (also called citalopram), sertraline (also known as 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 keep in mind that many people with anxiety disorders aren't responding to the first treatment. It could take between four and six weeks before symptoms start to improve, so it's essential to adhere to your treatment program. If you don't notice improvement after some time, consult with your doctor about changing your dosage or if you should consider taking an alternative medication.
Certain antidepressants from the past and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are also sometimes beneficial in the treatment of anxiety disorders. However they have less evidence of efficacy than SSRIs and SNRIs. They may cause more sedation and have more serious side-effects than the more recent drugs.
There is a lack of research on clonidine or guanfacine as an anxiety treatment. However, many studies show that these medications are more effective than placebos. Adding psychotherapy to the usage of these drugs increases the frequency of treatment and reduces adverse effects.
Talking therapy
GAD is a very common mental health condition however it can be difficult to treat. There are many treatment options available. Medicine is commonly used to relieve anxiety symptoms. Self-help and talk therapy techniques can ease symptoms over time. People with GAD can also join a support group to receive additional support.
Everyone has anxiety from time to time. However, those with GAD suffer from constant anxiety that interferes in their daily life. Restlessness, difficulty concentrating and muscle tension are some of the symptoms. The main focus of worry is daily issues like work responsibilities, family health and even minor issues like car repairs, chores, and appointments.
GAD sufferers may not be aware of the source of their anxiety, and these feelings can last for as long as six months. They might avoid situations that can trigger anxiety. The signs of anxiety are usually first observed in adolescence or childhood. The symptoms may worsen during times of high stress or illness, and could even persist into adulthood.
GAD may affect some people more than others. However there is treat anxiety iampsychiatry.com for this. Some theories suggest that it may be a genetic predisposition, or an amalgamation of factors, such as temperament or environmental influences. A traumatizing event or major life change like divorce or the death of someone loved one could cause the disorder.
There are many different methods to treat GAD and a combination of treatments is the most efficient. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be an effective way to control anxiety. This kind of therapy helps you to recognize and change the negative thinking patterns that cause anxiety. It will teach you how to face your fears, instead of avoiding them, in a safe setting.
Taking steps to relieve anxiety can help lead a healthier and happier life. You can do exercises or meditation to help calm your body and mind. Spending time with your loved ones and family can help you avoid feeling alone. You can also try a relaxation method, such as deep breathing or guided visualization. You can join an online support group to assist you in finding compassion and understanding.
Self-help groups
Everyone is anxious or nervous at times, and these feelings are normal aspects of life. However, those with GAD suffer from persistent, overly, unrealistic worries that they are unable to manage. They think bad things are likely to happen, and their anxiety can affect their daily lives. The symptoms persist for at least six months, and are not due to a medical condition.
There are a myriad of methods to treat GAD. The first is psychotherapy or "talk therapy," which is a type of treatment that involves talking with professionals in mental health like a psychiatrist or psychologist. This can help you recognize and modify unhealthy thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Psychotherapy can also teach you how to cope, including stress management and relaxation techniques.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another way to treat GAD. CBT helps you recognize and challenge your maladaptive thought patterns. It can also help you gain control over your anxiety and gradually return to activities you have avoided due to anxiety. CBT can be combined to enhance the effectiveness of treatment.
Medication is usually the most effective method to treat GAD. The medications from the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or serotonin, norepinephrine reuptake inhibition (SNRI), such as duloxetine and escitalopram are frequently first-line treatments. These antidepressants decrease anxiety by altering the balance of chemicals in your brain.
Self-help groups can be an ideal alternative for those who can't afford to see a professional or are unable to commit to therapy. These groups are regularly scheduled and offer assistance to those suffering from the same condition. Some groups are led by professionals, while others are self-organized and informal. The meetings last for about one and a quarter hours and participants share their personal experiences. The majority of groups accept donations or a donation, while some have no charges at all.
Genetics, temperament and environmental factors are all aspects that can contribute to GAD. For instance children may experience anxiety if their parents have the condition. Also, a traumatic incident can trigger anxiety. Certain diseases that are underlying such as an overactive thyroid gland, can also increase the risk of developing this condition.
Psychotherapy
The most effective form of psychotherapy for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It teaches you specific skills to help you manage your worries. CBT also helps you gradually return to activities you have avoided because of anxiety symptoms. Over time anxiety levels decrease as you build up on your accomplishments. Working closely with your mental healthcare professional will ensure you adhere to the treatment plan. Do not use herbal remedies or supplements as a way to treat anxiety since they may interact with your medication.
In a recent meta-analysis of networks and systematic review of randomized trials, CBT showed both acute and long-term efficacy and acceptance in treating generalized anxiety disorder in adults. A variety of CBT treatments proved to be efficient, including cue-control alternative self-statements, relaxation training. A variety of other psychotherapies were also found be effective, such as schema therapy and interpersonal therapy.
Psychodynamic therapy is a psychological treatment that helps you identify negative behavior patterns rooted in past experiences. The treatment employs open-ended questions that reveal unconscious patterns contributing to anxiety. Interpersonal therapy can also teach you healthy ways to improve your relationships with others.
Schema therapy assists you in overcoming abnormal behaviors and thoughts that are linked to childhood traumas. It is commonly used to treat unresolved childhood traumas, but it can also be beneficial in treating anxiety disorders. During the schema sessions, the therapist guides your eye movements to help you process your trauma in a way that doesn't cause anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety can be crippling. It's important to get treatment as soon as possible. You can manage your symptoms with the proper treatment and live a happy and full life. If you're suffering from anxiety, contact Active Path Mental Health today for more information about our services and to schedule an initial appointment. Our offices are located in Oregon and Washington and we're here to help you take charge of your life.