As we find out more about anxiety disorders, different anxiety disorder treatments have evolved. Although prescription medications are commonly used, they are not the only option or even the best option. Even if you are receiving medication as a form of treatment, it will often be combined with a form of counseling like psychodynamic therapy or cognitive behavior therapy. Amongst the other treatment modalities, using herbal remedies and massage therapy are also available.
When working with an anxiety disorder, physicians usually try some form of medication first. Drugs help stabilize anxiety issues quickly and offer the patient an opportunity to pursue other therapeutic options for long-term treatment. Commonly prescribed anxiety disorder treatment medications include Paxil or Zoloft. During an acute attack, it may be necessary to use a mild sedative or tranquilizer.
Therapy as an anxiety disorder treatment may be delayed until anxiety medication has been taken for a length of time appropriate to achieve an effective dose. Behavioral therapy is one option available. This type of therapy uses breathing techniques and controlled exposure to stress inducing situations. Patients will benefit most from behavioral therapy if they put forth their best efforts.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a deeper reaching form of psychotherapy for people suffering with an anxiety disorder. The therapy teaches the consumer to identify situations in which they react, and further identify patterns. With this knowledge they can then learn to challenge those reactions, and act differently given a similar situation. CBT is thought to be highly effective when it comes to anxiety disorder treatments.
Psychodynamic therapy is one of the more intangible forms of anxiety disorder treatment through therapy. It is based on the theory that an individual’s problems stem from an unknown conflict buried deep within their subconscious. A patient can only resolve this conflict by bringing it to the conscious mind which will alleviate the anxiety systems.
Although they are not mainstream treatments, natural remedies can also be used to treat anxiety disorder. Valerian root extract, passion flower extract and kava kava are herbs that are frequently used as anxiety disorder treatments. Acupuncture, and massage therapy are also natural remedies that many people swear by. Most of these remedies are readily accessible and gentle on the body with few side effects, with the exception of possible nausea and increased heart rate caused by passion flower.
Having an anxiety disorder can be quite disabling. It can destroy an individuals health, interpersonal relationships and job prospects. Thus any treatment is better than no anxiety disorder treatments at all. Anyone suffering from chronic anxiety or stress needs assistance whether in the form of a prescription medication from their primary care doctor or a homeopathic medicine that they purchase at a neighborhood natural foods store. By consulting with a doctor early on, finding a treatment or combination of treatments will get you on the path to feeling better sooner.
