How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder

There are many reasons to be worried. However, those who suffer from GAD are in an ongoing state of anxiety that affects their work, school and relationships.

Traumatic events, genetics or chronic medical conditions could be a cause of GAD. Medication and psychotherapy are two options for treatment.

Medications

There are many medications used to treat GAD, and it's recommended to talk with your doctor about the benefits and 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 also help with depression or other mental health issues. These medications are usually taken for a short time and are often combined with psychotherapy.

SSRIs block presynaptic transporters of serotonin so that it is available for release. SNRIs inhibit reuptakes of dopamine, norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters to improve neurotransmitter accessibility. Both have been proven to be effective in treating anxiety disorders, including GAD. They are typically the first-line treatment for psychiatric disorders such as panic disorder and major depressive disorder (MDD). The drugs in these classes include escitalopram sertraline, fluoxetine and 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 aren't responding to the first treatment. It could take anywhere from four to six weeks before symptoms start to improve, which is why it's essential to adhere to your treatment regimen. If you still don't feel better after several months, talk with your doctor about adjusting the dosage or switching medications.

Certain antidepressants from the past along with monoamine oxide (MAOI) inhibitors are sometimes effective in treating anxiety disorders. These drugs are less effective than SSRIs or SNRIs. They may cause more sedation, and have more serious side-effects than the newer medications.

There is also limited research on the effectiveness of clonidine and guanfacine for the treatment of anxiety. However, numerous studies show that these drugs are more effective than placebos. Psychotherapy can increase treatment adherence, and reduce the risk of adverse side effects.

Talking therapy

GAD is a very common mental health condition however, it isn't easy to treat. There are many treatment options available. Medications are often employed to alleviate anxiety symptoms, and talking therapy and self-help strategies can help manage symptoms over time. Support groups are available to those suffering from GAD.

Everyone has anxiety from time to moment. However, people with GAD suffer from constant anxiety that interferes in their daily life. Anxiety, irritability and muscle tension are just a few of the signs. Worries are usually focused on daily issues like work-related obligations, family health and even minor issues such as chores, repairs to the car, and appointments.

GAD sufferers might not know the root of their anxiety, and these symptoms can last for up to six months. They may also avoid situations which trigger anxiety. The symptoms of this disorder are often first observed in adolescence or childhood. Symptoms can worsen during periods of stress or illness, and can even persist into adulthood.

Some people are more prone to developing GAD than others, however there is no proven reason for this. Some theories suggest that it could be a genetic predisposition or a combination of factors, such as temperament or environmental influences. A traumatizing experience or life altering event, such as divorce or the death of a loved one, could also trigger.

There are many different ways to treat GAD however a combination of treatments is the most efficient. Talking therapies, for instance cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the best way to manage your anxiety. This type of therapy can help you to recognize and alter the negative thoughts that lead to anxious feelings. It can teach you how treat anxiety and depression to confront your fears, rather than avoid them, in a safe setting.

You can live a happier, healthier life by reducing your anxiety. You can do exercises or meditation to help calm your body and mind. Spending time with family and friends can help you avoid feeling alone. You might also try a relaxing technique, such as deep breathing or guided visualization. You can join a support group that can assist you in finding compassion and understanding.

Self-help groups

Everyone experiences anxiety or nervousness at some point in their lives. These kinds of feelings are normal. People suffering from GAD however, suffer from excessive, unrealistic, and persistent anxiety that they are unable to control. They fear that bad things could happen and their anxiety interferes in their daily lives. The symptoms last for six months or more and are not caused by a medical condition.

There are a variety of ways to treat GAD. The first treatment is psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," a type that involves talking to a mental health professional such as psychiatrist or psychologist. This can help you learn to recognize and change unhealthy emotions, thoughts and behavior. Psychotherapy can also teach you strategies for coping, such as relaxation and stress management techniques.

Another way to treat GAD is through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps you identify and challenge your maladaptive thought patterns. It can also help you regain control over your social anxiety disorder treatment and gradually return to activities you've avoided because of anxiety. CBT can be combined with medications to enhance the effectiveness of treatment.

Medication is typically the most effective method to treat GAD. The medications that fall into the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) classes are generally first-line treatments, such as escitalopram (Lexapro), duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR) and paroxetine (Paxil and Pexeva). These antidepressants decrease anxiety by altering the balance of chemical substances in your brain.

Self-help groups are an excellent alternative for those who are unable to afford to see a doctor or are unable to commit to a therapy session. They meet regularly and offer support to those with similar disorders. Some groups are led by professionals while others are informal and self-organized. Meetings last approximately one quarter hour and participants share their personal experiences. Some groups charge a fee, while others don't.

Genetics, temperament and environmental factors are all aspects that can contribute to GAD. A child may develop anxiety if one or both parents suffer from the disorder. Also, a traumatic event can cause anxiety. Certain conditions, such as an excessive thyroid gland, could increase the risk of developing this condition.

Psychotherapy

The most effective psychotherapy for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It helps you develop specific skills to aid you in managing your anxiety. CBT assists you in gradually resuming activities you avoided due to anxiety-related symptoms. Over time your anxiety will decrease as you build up on your successes. Working closely with your mental healthcare professional will ensure that you follow the treatment plan. Do not use supplements or herbal remedies to treat anxiety as they could interfere with your medication.

In a recent systematic review and network meta-analysis randomized clinical trials, CBT was associated with both acute and long-term effectiveness and acceptability in treating generalized anxiety treatment without Medicine disorder in adults. A variety of CBT treatments have been proven to be effective, including cue control alternatives to self-statements, relaxation training. Other psychotherapies, such as schematherapy and interpersonal therapy, were also found to be highly effective.

Psychodynamic therapy can help you recognize negative patterns of behavior rooted in your past experiences. This treatment uses open-ended questions that reveal unconscious patterns contributing to anticipatory anxiety treatment. Therapy with a counselor can help you improve your relationships with other people.

Schema therapy helps you overcome negative thoughts and behaviors that are linked to childhood traumas. It's commonly used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, however it can be effective for any kind of anxiety that stems from unresolved trauma. In schema therapy sessions you discuss your experience with your therapist as they direct your eye movements to process the memory in a way that doesn't cause anxiety symptoms.

Anxiety can be crippling and it's essential to seek treatment as quickly as you are able to. With the right treatment, you can learn to manage your symptoms and live a full, happy life. If you're struggling with anxiety, call Active Path Mental Health today to learn more about our services and to make an initial appointment. Our offices are located in Oregon and Washington and we're here to help you take control of your life.