How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Everyone is anxious now and then - and there could be reasons to be worried. However, those who suffer from GAD have an ongoing anxiety-like state that can affect their work, school and relationships.
GAD can be caused by trauma, genetics or chronic medical ailments. Treatment options include psychotherapy and medications.
Medicines
A number of medications are used to treat GAD, and it's a good idea to talk with your doctor about the benefits and side effects of these 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 drugs are effective in reducing anxiety, and can also help improve depression and other mental health issues. These medications are typically taken for a short period of time and are often combined with psychotherapy.
SSRIs are effective in blocking serotonin transporters in the presynaptic brain, ensuring that serotonin is available for release, and SNRIs hinder the reuptake process of norepinephrine and dopamine to increase neurotransmitter availability. Both have been shown to be effective in treating anxiety disorders, such as GAD. They are frequently used as the first line treatment for psychiatric conditions such as panic disorder or major depressive disorder. These medications include escitalopram (also known as citalopram) as well as sertraline (also called sertraline) duloxetine, fluoxetine, 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 it in mind that most people with anxiety disorders don't respond well to the initial treatment. It could take between four and six weeks before symptoms start to improve, which is why it's essential to adhere to your treatment regimen. If you don't experience improvement after several weeks, speak with your doctor about altering your dosage or taking a different medication.
Certain antidepressants that are older and monoamine oxidase (MAOI) inhibitors are sometimes effective in treating anxiety disorders. These medications are less effective than SSRIs or SNRIs. They can cause more sedation and can cause more serious adverse side effects than the newer medications.
There is limited research on clonidine and guanfacine as an anxiety treatment. However, numerous studies suggest that these medications are more effective than placebos. The addition of psychotherapy to the use of these drugs increases the adherence to treatment and reduces adverse effects.
Talking therapy
GAD is a very common mental health condition however, it can be difficult to treat. There are a variety of treatment options available. Medications are often employed to alleviate anxiety symptoms, while talking therapy and self-help strategies can aid in managing symptoms over time. Support groups are available to those with GAD.
Everyone has anxiety from time to time. However, those who suffer from GAD suffer from constant anxiety that can affect their daily life. Inattention, restlessness and muscle tension are just a few of the symptoms. The majority of the time, the concerns are focused on everyday issues like work obligations, family health, and other minor things, like chores such as car repairs or appointments.
GAD sufferers may not know the root of their anxiety, and these feelings can last for up to six months. They may also avoid situations which cause anxiety. The symptoms of this disorder tend to be observed in adolescence or childhood. The symptoms may become worse during times of stress or illness and can even persist into adulthood.
Certain people are more predisposed to develop GAD than others, but there isn't a definitive reason. Some theories suggest that it may be a genetic predisposition, or some combination of factors such as temperament and 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 methods to treat GAD. However the combination of treatments is the most effective. Talking therapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can be a great way to control your anxiety. This type of therapy helps you identify and modify negative thought patterns which lead to anxiety. It will teach you how to confront your fears, instead of avoiding them, in a secure environment.
You can live a happier, healthier life by taking steps to reduce your anxiety. You can use meditation or exercise to soothe your mind and body. You can also spend time with friends and family to keep from feeling isolated. You might also try a relaxing technique, such as deep breathing or guided visualization. You can join an online support group to help you find compassion and understanding.
Self-help groups
Everyone experiences anxiety or nervousness at some point in their lives. These feelings are normal. People with GAD however, suffer from excessive unrealistic, persistent worries that they cannot control. They fear that bad things will occur and their anxiety can affect their daily lives. The symptoms last for a minimum of six months and are not caused by a medical problem.
There are a variety of ways to treat GAD. The first is psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," which is a kind of treatment that involves talking to an expert in mental health such as psychologist or psychiatrist. This will help you understand how to recognize and alter unhealthy emotions, thoughts and behaviours. Psychotherapy can teach you strategies to cope, like stress management or relaxation techniques.
Another approach to treat GAD is to use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps you recognize and challenge your maladaptive thought patterns. It can also help you regain control over your worrying and gradually return to activities that you've resisted due to anxiety. CBT can be incorporated to boost the effectiveness of treatment.
Medication is usually the most effective treatment for GAD. Treatments based on the selective serotonin reuptake inhibit (SSRI) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), such as duloxetine and escitalopram are typically first-line treatments. These antidepressants can reduce anxiety by changing the balance of chemicals within your brain.
Self-help groups are a good alternative for those who are unable to afford to see a professional therapist or don't want to commit to talking therapy. These groups are regularly scheduled and offer support to others with the same condition. Some groups are run by professionals, while others are self-organized and informal. Meetings usually last about one and a half hours, and participants share their experiences with each other. Most groups accept donations and some do not charge charges at all.
Genetics, temperament and environmental factors are all aspects that contribute to GAD. A child can develop anxiety when either or both parents suffer from the condition. An event that is traumatic can trigger anxiety. Certain diseases that are underlying, such as an excessive thyroid gland, could increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective psychotherapy to treat GAD. It helps you develop specific skills that can aid you in managing your anxiety. CBT will also assist you to gradually return to activities that you had avoided due to anxiety symptoms. As you improve your results, your anxiety will decrease as time passes. Working closely with your mental healthcare professional will ensure you adhere to the treatment plan. Avoid using supplements or herbal remedies to treat anxiety as they could interact with your medication.
In a recent network meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized studies, CBT showed both acute and long-term efficacy and the ability to treat generalized anxiety disorder in adults. Several different CBT treatments have been proven to be effective, including cue controlling, alternative self-statements and relaxation training. Other psychotherapies were also found be effective, including interpersonal therapy and schema therapy.
Psychodynamic therapy is a type of psychological treatment that helps identify negative behavior patterns rooted in past experiences. The treatment employs open-ended questions to uncover unconscious patterns contributing to anxiety. Interpersonal therapy can help you improve your relationships with others.
natural remedies to treat anxiety can help you overcome negative thoughts and behaviors that are linked to childhood traumas. It is often used to treat unresolved childhood traumas, but it can also be beneficial in treating anxiety disorders. In schema sessions, the therapist guides your eye movements to help you process your trauma in a way that does not trigger anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety can be a crippling issue, and it's important to seek treatment as early as you can. You can manage your anxiety with the proper treatment and lead a healthy, full life. Contact Active Path Mental Health for more information about our services or to make a an initial appointment if you have anxiety issues. We have offices in Oregon and Washington and we are here to help you regain control of your life.