Why Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder Is More Tougher Than You Imagine
How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Everyone experiences anxiety every now and then, and there could be reasons to be concerned. People with GAD are constantly in a state of anxiety that can affect their relationships, work or school.
Genetics, traumatic events or chronic medical conditions could be associated with GAD. Treatment options include medication and psychotherapy.
Medicines
It is essential to discuss with your doctor the benefits and potential side negative effects 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 or other mental health conditions. These medications are usually taken for a brief period of time and are usually combined with psychotherapy.
SSRIs are effective in blocking serotonin transporters in the presynaptic brain, ensuring that serotonin is readily available to release, and SNRIs inhibit the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine to increase the availability of neurotransmitters. Both have been proven to be effective in treating anxiety disorders such as GAD. They are typically the first-line treatment for psychiatric disorders like panic disorder and major depressive disorder (MDD). The drugs that fall into 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 is important to keep in mind that the majority of people suffering from anxiety disorders don't respond to initial medication treatments. It could take between four and six weeks before symptoms start to improve, so it's essential to adhere to your treatment regimen. If you're still not feeling better after several months, talk to your physician about changing your dosage or switching medications.
Some antidepressants that are older and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) are also effective in treating anxiety disorders. However, these medications are not as well-proven than SSRIs and SNRIs. They can cause more sedation, and have more serious side-effects than the more recent medications.
There is also a lack of research on the efficacy of guanfacine and clonidine for the treatment of anxiety. However, numerous studies show that these medications are more efficient than placebos. Psychotherapy can increase treatment adherence, and reduce reported side effects.
Talking therapy
GAD is a very common mental illness, but it is difficult to treat. There are many treatment options available. Medications are commonly used to ease anxiety symptoms, while talking therapy and self-help strategies can help manage symptoms over time. Support groups are offered to those suffering from GAD.
Everyone is anxious at times, but those with GAD suffer from a constant state of anxiety that affects their daily activities. The symptoms can include restlessness, difficulty concentrating on tasks, muscle tension, and a feeling of being in a state of anxiety. Worries are usually focused on things that are routine, like work-related obligations, family health, and minor concerns, such as chores, repairs to the car, and appointments.
GAD sufferers might not be aware of the source of their anxiety, and these symptoms can last for as long as six months. They may also avoid situations which can trigger anxiety. People suffering from this disorder usually begin experiencing symptoms in their teens or early childhood. The symptoms can become more severe during times of stress or illness, and could even persist into adulthood.
GAD can affect some people more than others. However, there is no cause for this. Some theories suggest that it could be a genetic predisposition or some combination of factors such as temperament or environmental influences. A traumatizing event or life change, such as divorce or the loss of a loved one, could trigger.
There are a variety of ways to combat GAD. However, a combination of treatments will be most effective. Talking therapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can be the best way to manage your anxiety. This type of therapy helps you identify and alter negative thought patterns which lead to anxiety. It can help you learn to face your fears instead of avoiding them, in a safe setting.
Doing something to ease anxiety can help live a happier and healthier life. Try exercising or meditation to help calm your body and mind. Spending time with family and friends can help you feel less isolated. You can also employ relaxation techniques like guided visualization or deep breathing. You can join a support group to help you gain compassion and understanding.
Self-help groups
Everyone is anxious or nervous at some point, and these feelings are a normal part of life. People with GAD, however, have excessive, unrealistic, and persistent worries that they cannot control. They are convinced that bad things will happen, and their anxiety can affect their lives. The symptoms last for a minimum of six months and are not caused by a medical issue.
There are a myriad of methods to treat GAD. treatment for generalized anxiety is psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," which is a kind of treatment that requires talking to a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. It can help you identify and change negative thoughts, emotions and behavior. Psychotherapy can teach you strategies to cope, like stress management or relaxation techniques.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a different method to treat GAD. CBT helps you recognize and address your faulty thought patterns. It will also help you gain control over your worrying and gradually return to activities that you've avoided because of anxiety. CBT can be used in conjunction with medications to enhance the effectiveness of treatment.
Medication is usually the most effective treatment for GAD. Treatments based on the selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), such as duloxetine and escitalopram are typically first-line treatments. These antidepressants may help to reduce anxiety by altering the balance of chemicals within your brain.
Self-help groups can be a great alternative for those who cannot afford to see an expert therapist or wish to commit to talk therapy. These groups are regularly scheduled to provide support to those with the same condition. Some groups are managed by professionals, while others are more informal and self-organized. The average meeting lasts for one and a half hours and participants share their experiences with each other. Most groups accept donations, and some have no fees at all.
Genetics, temperament and environmental factors are all factors that can contribute to GAD. For instance the child could develop anxiety if his or her parents have the condition. A traumatic event can trigger anxiety. People who suffer from certain illnesses, such as an overactive thyroid gland, are also more likely be suffering from the condition.
Psychotherapy
The most effective psychotherapy for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It helps you develop specific skills that can assist you in managing your stress. CBT assists you to gradually resume activities you avoided due to anxiety-related symptoms. As time passes anxiety levels decrease as you build on your successes. Working closely with your mental healthcare professional will ensure you adhere to the treatment program. Avoid using supplements or herbal remedies as a method of treating anxiety since they may interfere with your medication.
In a recent meta-analysis of networks and systematic review of randomized trials, CBT showed both acute and long term effectiveness and the ability to treat generalized anxiety disorder in adults. CBT treatments like cue-controlling, alternative self statements and relaxation training were all found to be effective. Other psychotherapies, like interpersonal therapy and schematherapy, were also proven to be extremely effective.
Psychodynamic therapy is a psychological treatment that helps you recognize negative patterns of behavior that are rooted in your past experiences. It involves open-ended questions and free association to discover unconscious patterns that cause your anxiety. Interpersonal therapy can help you improve your relationships with other people.
Schema therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps you overcome maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that are a result of childhood traumas. It is commonly used to treat unresolved childhood traumas. However, it is also 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 does not cause anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety can be a crippling issue and it's essential to seek treatment for it as quickly as you are able to. With the proper treatment, you'll manage your symptoms and live a an active, healthy 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 charge of your life.