What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Everyone feels anxious now and then - and there could be good reasons to worry. But people with GAD suffer from a constant anxiety that impacts their school, work and relationships.
Genetics, trauma or chronic medical conditions could be a cause of GAD. Medication and psychotherapy are two treatment options.
Medicines
There are a variety of medications used to treat GAD, and it's a good idea to talk with your doctor about the benefits and side 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 decrease anxiety and may also improve depression and other mental health issues. These medications are typically taken for a short time and are often combined with psychotherapy.
SSRIs block the presynaptic transporters of serotonin so that it is accessible for release. They block reuptakes of dopamine, norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters to improve the accessibility of neurotransmitters. Both have been proven to be effective in treating anxiety disorders, including GAD. They are frequently the preferred first-line treatment for psychiatric disorders such as panic disorder and major depression (MDD). Medications 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 is important to keep in mind that many people with anxiety disorders don't respond to the initial treatment for high functioning anxiety. It can take as long as six weeks before symptoms begin to improve. Therefore, it is essential to stick to your treatment plan. If you still don't feel better after several months, talk to your doctor about changing your dosage or switching medications.
Certain antidepressants from the past and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) are also useful in the treatment of anxiety disorders. However they are less backed by evidence than SSRIs and SNRIs. They are more likely to cause sedation and may cause more serious side effects than the newer medications.
There is limited research on clonidine or guanfacine as a treatment for anxiety. However, treatment for high functioning anxiety numerous studies show that these drugs are more efficient than placebos. Adding psychotherapy to the usage of these drugs increases the adherence to treatment and reduces adverse effects.
Talking therapy
GAD is a common mental health problem however, it can be difficult to treat. There are many treatment options. Medications are commonly used to reduce anxiety symptoms, and self-help and talking therapy can ease symptoms over time. Support groups are offered to people with GAD.
Everyone has anxiety from time to moment. However, people with GAD have a constant fear that interferes in their daily life. The symptoms can include a lack of concentration, restlessness or concentrating, muscle tension and the feeling of being anxious. The focus is usually on everyday issues such as work-related obligations, family health and minor concerns like car repairs, chores, and appointments.
People suffering from GAD might not be able to identify what is causing their worry and their anxiety can last for at least six months. They might avoid situations that trigger anxiety. The signs of anxiety are often first seen in the adolescent or early childhood years. The symptoms can become more severe when there is stress or illness and could even persist into adulthood.
Certain people are more susceptible to develop GAD than others, but there is no definitive reason for this. There are theories that suggest it may be a genetic predisposition, or a combination of factors, such as temperament or environmental influences. A traumatic experience or a life-changing event, like divorce or the death of a loved one, could trigger.
There are many methods to treat GAD. However the combination of treatments is the most efficient. Talking therapies, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the best way to manage your anxiety. This type of therapy teaches you to recognize and change the negative thoughts that cause anxiety. It will teach you how to face your fears, instead of avoiding them, in a secure setting.
Making the effort to reduce your anxiety can help you lead a healthier and happier life. You can do exercises or meditation to relax your mind and body. Spending time with family and friends can help you avoid feeling isolated. You might also try a relaxing technique, such as deep breathing or guided visualization. You can join a support group to help you find compassion and understanding.
Self-help groups
Everyone experiences anxiety or nervousness at some point in their lives. These kinds of feelings are normal. However, those with GAD have persistent, excessive, unrealistic worries that they are unable to manage. They are convinced that bad things are likely to happen, and their anxiety interferes with their daily lives. The symptoms last at least six months and are not a result of any medical issue.
There are a variety of ways to treat GAD. The first is psychotherapy, or "talk therapy," a type that involves speaking with an expert in mental health like a psychologist or psychiatrist. It can help you learn to recognize and modify negative thoughts, emotions and behavior. Psychotherapy can also help you learn how to cope, including stress management and relaxation techniques.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a different approach to treat GAD. CBT teaches you to identify and confront your unadaptive thinking 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 combined to enhance the effectiveness of natural treatment for stress and anxiety.
The most effective way to treat GAD. Medications from the selective serotonin reuptake inhibit (SSRI) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), such as duloxetine and escitalopram are typically first-line treatments. Antidepressants can reduce anxiety by altering the balance of chemicals within your brain.
Self-help groups are an excellent alternative for those who cannot afford to see a doctor or are unable to commit to therapy. They meet regularly and provide support to others with similar disorders. Some groups are run by professionals, while others are self-organized and informal. Meetings last about one and a quarter hours, and participants share their personal experiences. Most groups accept a donation, and some have no fees whatsoever.
Genetics, temperament, and environmental factors are all elements which can cause GAD. A child may develop anxiety if parents or both suffer from the condition. A traumatic event can trigger anxiety. Certain diseases that are underlying, 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 is focused on teaching you the specific skills to manage your anxiety directly. CBT also helps you gradually return to activities that you avoided due to anxiety-related symptoms. As time passes anxiety levels decrease as you build upon your successes. Working closely with your mental health professional will ensure you adhere to the treatment plan. Do not use herbal remedies or supplements as a way to treat anxiety as they could interfere with your medication.
In a recent systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials, CBT was associated with both long-term and acute effectiveness and acceptance for treating generalized anxiety disorder in adults. CBT treatments like cue-controlling, alternative self statements and relaxation training were all proven to be effective. Other psychotherapies was also found to be effective, including interpersonal therapy and schema therapy.
Psychodynamic therapy is a psychological treatment that can help you identify negative behavior patterns which are rooted in previous experiences. It involves open-ended questions and free association to uncover unconscious patterns that contribute to your anxiety. Therapy with a counselor can aid in improving your relationships with other people.
Schema therapy is a form of psychotherapy that assists you to overcome maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that are related to childhood traumas. It's often used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, however it can be beneficial for any kind of anxiety that stems from unresolved trauma. In schema therapy you discuss your experience with your therapist while they guide your eye movements to process the memories in a manner that doesn't cause anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety can be a crippling issue. It's important to get treatment as soon as you can. You can manage your symptoms with the right treatment and lead a healthy, full life. Contact Active Path Mental Health for more information on our services, or to set up a an initial appointment if are struggling with anxiety. We have offices in Oregon and Washington and will assist you in regaining control of your life.