How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Everyone feels anxious now and then - and there are good reasons to worry. However, those with GAD suffer from an unending anxiety that impacts their work, school and relationships.
Traumatic events, genetics or chronic medical conditions may be associated with GAD. Medication and psychotherapy are two treatment options.
Medicines
There are many medications used to treat GAD, and it's a good idea to speak with your doctor about the advantages and side adverse 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 medications can help reduce anxiety and can also help improve depression and other mental health conditions. These drugs are typically used for a brief period of time and are often used in conjunction with psychotherapy.
SSRIs block presynaptic transporters of serotonin, ensuring that it is ready for release. They block reuptakes of norepinephrine, dopamine and other neurotransmitters to increase neurotransmitter accessibility. Both have been shown effective in treating anxiety disorders such as GAD. They are often utilized as the first line treatment for psychiatric conditions like panic disorder or major depressive disorder. These medications include escitalopram (also called citalopram), sertraline (also called sertraline) as well as 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 it in mind that many people with anxiety disorders don't respond to the initial treatment. It could take between four and six weeks before symptoms begin to improve, which is why it's crucial to stick with your treatment plan. If you don't notice improvement after a few weeks, talk with your doctor about changing your dosage or taking another medication.
Certain antidepressants from the past and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) can also be beneficial in the treatment of anxiety disorders. These medications are not as effective as SSRIs or SNRIs. They may cause more sedation and may cause more serious side-effects than the more recent medications.
There is a limited amount of research on the use of guanfacine and clonidine for the treatment of anxiety. However, numerous studies suggest that these drugs are more efficacious than placebos. Adding psychotherapy to the use of these medications improves the adherence to treatment and reduces adverse effects.
Talking therapy
GAD is a common mental illness, however it is difficult to treat. There are a variety of treatment options. The use of medication is often employed to alleviate anxiety symptoms, while self-help techniques and talking therapy can aid in managing symptoms over time. People suffering from GAD are also able to join a support group to receive additional support.
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, but those with GAD have a constant state of anxiety that interferes with their daily activities. Anxiety, irritability and muscle tension are some of the symptoms. Most often, the thoughts tend to be about everyday concerns like work duties, family health and other minor things, like chores such as car repairs or appointments.
treatments for anxiety disorders might not know the cause of their anxiety, and the symptoms can last up to six months. They may also avoid situations which trigger anxiety. People suffering from this disorder usually begin to experience symptoms in childhood or adolescence. The symptoms can become more severe during times of stress or illness, and can even persist into adulthood.
GAD may affect some people more than others. However there is no reason for this. There are theories that suggest it could be a genetic predisposition or a combination of factors, such as temperament or environmental influences. A traumatizing experience or major life change like divorce or the death of someone loved can also trigger the disorder.
There are a variety of methods to treat GAD and the combination of treatments is the most effective. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are an effective way to control anxiety. This kind of therapy helps you recognize and change negative thought patterns which can cause anxiety. It will teach you how to confront your fears, rather than avoiding them in a secure environment.
Taking steps to relieve anxiety can help lead a healthier and happier life. Try exercising or meditation to help calm your mind and body. You can also enjoy time with friends and family to avoid feeling isolated. You can also employ relaxation techniques, such as guided visualization or deep breathing. You can also join a support group for anxiety to find compassion and understanding from others who have experienced similar issues.
Self-help groups
Every person experiences nervousness or anxiety at some moment in their lives. These kinds of feelings are normal. People with GAD however, suffer from excessive, unrealistic, and persistent worries that they cannot control. They fear that bad things could happen and their anxiety interferes in their daily lives. The symptoms last for at least six months and are not triggered by a medical condition.
There are a variety of methods to treat GAD. The first option is psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," a type that involves speaking with an expert in mental health such as psychiatrist or psychologist. It can help you learn to recognize and alter unhealthy emotions, thoughts and behavior. Psychotherapy can also teach you coping skills, such as stress management and relaxation techniques.
Another way to treat GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps you recognize and challenge your maladaptive thought patterns. It can also help you gain control over your worrying and gradually return to activities that you've avoided because of anxiety. CBT can be paired with medications to enhance the effectiveness of treatment.
Medication is often the most effective treatment for GAD. Treatments based on the selective serotonin reuptake inhibit (SSRI) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) such as escitalopram and duloxetine are often first-line treatments. Antidepressants can reduce anxiety by altering the balance of chemical substances within your brain.
Self-help groups can be a good alternative for those who are unable to afford to see a doctor or do not wish to commit to therapy. These groups meet regularly to offer assistance to those suffering from the same condition. Some groups are run by professionals, while others are informal and self-organized. Meetings usually last about one and a half hour, and participants are able to share their experiences with one others. The majority of groups accept donations, and some have no charges at all.
Genetics, temperament and environmental factors are all aspects that can contribute to GAD. A child can develop anxiety when one or both parents suffer from the disorder. A traumatic event may also cause anxiety. Certain diseases that are underlying, such as an excessive thyroid gland, could increase the risk of developing this condition.
Psychotherapy
The most effective therapy for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It teaches you specific skills that will help you manage your worries. CBT can also help you gradually return to activities you have avoided because of anxiety symptoms. Over time, your anxiety decreases as you build upon your successes. It is important to work closely with your mental health professional to ensure you're following the treatment plan and not relying on supplements or herbal remedies to help treat anxiety because they could interfere with your medication.
In a recent systematic review and network meta-analysis of clinical trials that were randomized, CBT was associated with both long-term and acute efficacy and acceptance for treating generalized anxiety disorder in adults. Many different CBT treatments have been proven to be effective, including cue control alternative self-statements, relaxation training. Other psychotherapies, including interpersonal therapy and schematherapy, were also found to be extremely effective.
Psychodynamic therapy is a type of psychological treatment that helps discover negative patterns of behavior that are which are rooted in previous experiences. This treatment makes use of open-ended questions to uncover subconscious patterns that cause anxiety. Therapy for interpersonal relationships can also teach you how to improve your relationships with others.
Schema therapy is a type of psychotherapy that helps you overcome the negative thoughts and behaviors that are associated with childhood traumas. It is typically used to address unresolved childhood traumas. However, it can also be effective in treating anxiety disorders. During schema sessions, your therapist will guide your eye movements in order to process your trauma in a manner that doesn't cause anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety can be a crippling issue. It is crucial to seek treatment as soon as you can. You can manage your symptoms with the right treatment and live a happy, full life. Contact Active Path Mental Health for more information on our services or to schedule an initial appointment if you have anxiety issues. Our offices are located in Oregon and Washington and we're there to help you get control of your life.