Do Not Buy Into These “Trends” About Anxiety Disorder

Dealing With Anxiety Disorders The occasional anxiety is normal however, persistent anxieties and fears that interfere with everyday life require treatment. Doctors can prescribe medication and talk therapy to ease the burden. The most popular therapies are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as relaxation techniques and exposure therapy. There are also a variety of medications to treat anxiety-related symptoms, including modern antidepressants. Treatment Stress can cause you to feel anxious or fearful at times. Anxiety disorders, however can cause persistent and extreme feelings of anxiety or fear that are often in contrast to the circumstances. They can also interfere in people's daily activities and relationships. Certain medications can alleviate some of the symptoms. To fully recover, patients need to learn better methods of managing and coping with their anxiety. A psychiatrist (a medical specialist in mental health), a psychologist, a social worker or a counselor can treat those suffering from anxiety disorders. Health care providers will ask about medical history and symptoms, and may perform a physical exam. They may also order lab tests to rule out other conditions which could be causing symptoms. Psychotherapy or talk therapy and medication are two treatment options for anxiety disorders. The type of therapy and length of treatment will be determined by the particular disorder, its severity, and how long the patient has been suffering from it. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most commonly used type of therapy that is used to combat anxiety. This approach helps people identify negative patterns of thinking and alter them. It can also teach people to use relaxation techniques and exposure responses to reduce anxiety. Another form of therapy to treat anxiety is interpersonal therapy, also known as IPT. This method can be beneficial for those suffering from anxiety that is related to their relationships, like social anxiety disorder or phobias. Therapy for interpersonal relationships helps people discover healthy ways to express their feelings. Medicines that can relieve certain anxiety symptoms include antidepressants, benzodiazepines and beta blockers. A health care provider can prescribe the best medicine to treat a patient's condition and will also address any side effects. Patients shouldn't stop taking prescribed medicines unless they are instructed to do so by their doctor. In some cases abrupt discontinuation of a medication may trigger withdrawal symptoms. These include brain zaps which feel like shocks. Yoga, meditation as well as stress reduction and healthy sleeping habits are alternatives to treat anxiety. In addition, people with anxiety may benefit from joining a support group for other people suffering from the same condition that can offer compassion understanding, empathy and shared experiences. It is also recommended to stay away from any other stimulants, which can make anxiety symptoms worse. It is also important to get enough rest and eat a balanced diet. Regular exercise and time spent with friends can help reduce stress. Symptoms People can feel anxious from time to time like when they're beginning a new job or taking a test. When anxiety is persistent and begins to interfere with the daily routine, then help is needed. Anxiety disorders are characterized by a feeling of fear or panic that are unrelated to the risk. They are difficult to manage and can be present for a lengthy period of time. People with an anxiety disorder may even start to avoid situations or places that could trigger their symptoms. People with anxiety disorders often undergo therapy and take medication or counseling. Psychotherapy is a type of therapy known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular treatment for anxiety disorders. CBT helps patients to recognize and alter the behavior or thoughts that cause their symptoms. Other medications can also ease anxiety symptoms. Beta-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure) can, for instance reduce heartbeats that are rapid and other physical signs associated with anxiety. Antidepressants, which are often prescribed to treat depression, can also aid in reducing anxiety. Examples include SSRIs like Lexapro (escitalopram) and SNRIs such as duloxetine, (Cymbalta), and venlafaxine, (Effexor). Benzodiazepines can also be helpful for some people with anxiety. However, they can have severe side effects and can be addictive. Examples include diazepam and clonazepam. Education is also crucial to promote recovery. For example, learning about the physiology behind the “flight-or-fight” response, which is normal and helps us deal with perceived or actual threats, can help to dispel misconceptions that can cause anxiety. It's also helpful to realize that some medical conditions, like hyperthyroidism and heart disease can cause anxiety-related symptoms. These people should undergo a thorough physical exam to rule out any problems. A healthy diet, getting plenty of rest and staying active can all aid in reducing anxiety symptoms. Avoiding alcohol or recreational street drugs can help reduce anxiety symptoms. Smoking can make the condition worse. Talking to family members and friends, both face to face and through online support groups, can help too. Diagnosis Everyone experiences anxiety and fear at times. These are normal human emotions that help us cope with danger. When these emotions become extreme, and prevent people from living their lives, it is the time to seek professional help. A mental health expert can determine if suffer from an anxiety disorder and suggest treatment. To diagnose anxiety disorders, a healthcare doctor will conduct a physical exam and ask you questions about your symptoms. He or she wants to know how long ago the symptoms of anxiety began and the severity of them. A doctor may inquire if your symptoms have impacted your daily life. Many mental health issues, such as depression or post-traumatic disorder, are associated with anxiety disorders. A specialist may ask about any other psychological problems you've had to deal with. There isn't a single test that can be used to diagnose an anxiety disorder. A medical professional can rule out other causes of your symptoms by conducting tests for blood or urine and asking about your family history. A mental health professional can also use standardized tests and questionnaires to evaluate your anxiety level and make a diagnosis. The majority of people with anxiety disorder s benefit from a combination therapy that includes psychotherapy or “talk therapy”, and medication. Talk therapy is a form of treatment known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT teaches you a different way to think and react, so you are less anxious. Antianxiety medications, beta-blockers and some antidepressants are all effective in controlling your symptoms. Symptoms of an anxiety disorder include a persistent feeling of anxiety, tight muscles, and trouble concentration. Some people may also experience symptoms like breathlessness, trembling, and dizziness. A person who has anxiety disorders may avoid situations or activities that cause anxiety. This kind of avoidance can be extremely stressful for the person suffering from anxiety and can cause other issues like a poor performance at work and relationships. Children's anxiety is normal, however they typically get over it as they get older. Anxiety disorders are more prevalent in adults who continue to experience anxiety symptoms. Anxiety disorders can be treated, but you have to be willing to seek treatment and be patient. It takes time to find the best combination of treatments that work for you. The reward is a happy and healthy life. The importance of seeking treatment early, because anxiety can get worse in time if not treated. With the right care and treatment, you can beat this problem. Visit our Anxiety Resource page for more information about finding the best treatment.