How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Everyone experiences anxiety at times - and there are reasons to be concerned. People with GAD are constantly in a state of anxiety, which can impact their relationships, work or school.
Genetics, trauma or chronic medical conditions may be the cause of GAD. Medication and psychotherapy are two treatment options.
Medicines
It is essential to talk with your doctor about the benefits and possible side consequences 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 may also improve depression and other mental health issues. These medications are typically taken for a short time and are usually coupled with psychotherapy.
SSRIs are effective in blocking serotonin transporters in the presynaptic brain, ensuring that serotonin can be released to release, and SNRIs block the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in order to increase neurotransmitter supply. Both have been proven to be effective in treating anxiety disorders such as GAD. They are frequently used as the first-line treatment of mental illnesses such as panic disorder or major depressive disorder. The drugs that fall into 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 keep in mind that most people with anxiety disorders don't respond to the first treatment. I Am Psychiatry could take anywhere from four to six weeks before symptoms start to improve, so it's essential to adhere to your treatment program. If you don't see improvement after several weeks, speak with your doctor about changing your dosage or if you should consider taking a different medication.
Certain older antidepressants, as well as monoamine oxide (MAOI) inhibitors are sometimes effective in treating anxiety disorders. These drugs are less effective than SSRIs or SNRIs. They are more likely to cause sedation and may cause more serious adverse reactions than the newer medications.
There is a limited amount of research on the efficacy of guanfacine and clonidine for the treatment of anxiety. However, numerous studies suggest that these medications are more effective than placebos. Psychotherapy can increase treatment adherence and reduce the number of reported side effects.
Talking therapy
GAD is an extremely common mental illness, yet it is difficult to treat. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available. Medication is often used to relieve anxiety symptoms. Self-help and talking therapy techniques can ease symptoms with time. Support groups are available to those suffering from GAD.
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to the. However, people with GAD suffer from constant anxiety that interferes in their daily life. Symptoms may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating on tasks, muscle tension, and the feeling of being in a state of anxiety. The majority of the time, the concerns tend to be about everyday concerns, such as job duties, family health and even minor issues, such as chores or car repairs, appointments and so on.
People suffering from GAD may not be able to pinpoint the cause of their anxiety and their anxiety can last for at minimum six months. They might also avoid situations which can trigger anxiety. Symptoms of this disorder are often first seen in the adolescent or early childhood years. Symptoms can worsen during periods of stress or illness, and can even persist into adulthood.
GAD may affect some people more than others. However there isn't a reason for this. There are theories that suggest it may be a genetic predisposition, or a combination of factors, such as temperament and environmental influences. A traumatizing experience or life-changing event, like divorce or the death of a loved one could also trigger.
There are many ways to treat GAD, but a combination of treatments is the most efficient. Talking therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be an effective method of reducing anxiety. This type of therapy can help you to recognize and change the negative thought patterns that trigger anxiety. It also teaches you to face your fears in a safe environment, instead of avoiding them.
Taking steps to relieve anxiety can help you live a more relaxed and happier life. Meditation or exercise to calm your mind and body. You can also enjoy time with family and friends to avoid feeling isolated. You might also try a relaxing method, such as deep breathing or guided visualization. You can join an online support group to help you gain compassion and understanding.
Self-help groups
Everyone is anxious or nervous at some time and these emotions are a normal part of life. People suffering from GAD, however, have excessive or unrealistic worries that they cannot control. They fear that bad things will occur and their anxiety affects their daily lives. The symptoms persist for at least six months, and are not due to a medical condition.
There are many ways to treat GAD. The first option is psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," a type that involves speaking to a mental health professional like psychiatrist or psychologist. This can help you recognize and alter unhealthy thoughts, emotions and behaviours. Psychotherapy can teach you strategies for coping, such as stress management or relaxation techniques.
Another way to treat GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps you identify and challenge your maladaptive thinking patterns. It will also help you gain control over your worry and gradually return to activities you've avoided because of anxiety. CBT can be used in conjunction with medications to improve the effectiveness of treatment.
The most effective treatment for GAD. Treatments based on the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or serotonin, norepinephrine-reuptake inhibition (SNRI), such as duloxetine and escitalopram are typically first-line treatments. These antidepressants can help reduce anxiety by altering the balance of chemicals in your brain.
Self-help groups can be a great alternative for those who cannot afford a professional therapist or don't want to commit to talking therapy. These groups are regularly scheduled and offer support to others with similar disorders. Some groups are run by professionals while others are self-organized and informal. The meetings last for about one quarter hour and participants discuss their experiences. Some groups charge a fee while others don't.
The factors that cause GAD include the genetics of a person's personality, their genes and even environmental factors. Children may experience anxiety if one or both parents suffer from the condition. Additionally, a traumatizing event can trigger anxiety. People with certain underlying illnesses such as an overactive thyroid gland are also more likely to suffer from the condition.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective therapy for treating GAD. It concentrates on teaching you specific techniques to manage your anxiety directly. CBT also helps you gradually return to activities that you have avoided because of anxiety symptoms. Over time anxiety levels decrease as you build on your accomplishments. Working closely with your mental health professional will ensure that you follow the treatment program. Do not use supplements or herbal remedies to treat anxiety since they may interact with your medication.
In a recent systematic review and network meta-analysis clinical trials that were randomized, CBT was associated with both long-term and acute effectiveness and acceptability for treating generalized anxiety disorder in adults. Several different CBT treatments proved to be efficient, including cue-control, alternative self-statements and relaxation training. A variety of other psychotherapies was also found to be effective, such as schema therapy and interpersonal therapy.
Psychodynamic therapy is a type of psychological treatment that helps you recognize negative patterns of behavior which are rooted in previous experiences. The treatment employs open-ended questions to reveal the unconscious patterns contributing to anxiety. Therapy for interpersonal relationships can also teach you how to improve your relationships with others.
Schema therapy is a form of psychotherapy that aids you in overcome the negative thoughts and behaviors that are related to childhood traumas. It is often used to address unresolved childhood traumas, however it can also be effective in treating anxiety disorders. In schema therapy you discuss your experience with your therapist as they direct your eye movements to reprocess the memories in a manner that doesn't cause anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety can be crippling. It's important to get treatment as soon as possible. With the right treatment, you can manage your symptoms and lead a an active, healthy life. Contact Active Path Mental Health for more information on our services, or to set up a an initial appointment if you are struggling with anxiety. We have offices in Oregon and Washington and are here to assist you in regaining control of your life.