Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses, affecting over 40 million adults in the US alone. People suffering from anxiety often experience a fearful, shaky feeling, which makes them feel alone in the struggle. In reality, a majority of the population is affected by this mental illness at some point. The good news is that there are several ways to manage this problem.
Currently, mental health facilities are available in almost every part of the country. If you are struggling with anxiety and it is affecting the quality of your life, you can visit an Orange County mental health facility or in your residential area for treatment. Even though anxiety medications are quite popular in the market, ask your healthcare provider for a more holistic approach.
The Limitations of Anxiety Medication
Healthcare providers often prescribe specific medications, such as benzodiazepines and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), to manage the anxiety symptoms in some people. However, these medications have some noticeable drawbacks.
Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Valium, can lead to dependence and even addiction. Without proper guidance, these medications can do more harm than good. Also, patients often experience drowsiness, dizziness, memory problems, and, in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts or behaviors under these medications.
SSRIs, such as Prozac and Zoloft, can be beneficial for some individuals, but they can also have some adverse effects on the patients. The side effects of these drugs include sexual dysfunction, weight gain, dizziness, confusion, memory impairment, and insomnia.
What Are the Alternative Approaches to Anxiety Management?
Studies suggest that it is possible to manage the symptoms of anxiety with medication. If you suffer from anxiety and have concerns about the usage of medication, you can work with an experienced healthcare provider. They are likely to suggest a holistic approach to managing anxiety. Let’s take a look at all the approaches used to treat anxiety symptoms.
Psychotherapy
When it comes to anxiety treatment, psychotherapy is considered more effective than medication. This approach allows the person to talk about what they feel, explore coping mechanisms, and identify experiences that contribute to their anxiety.
While there are several approaches to psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) deserves special mention. This treatment focuses on helping individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. With this approach, a person can learn to tackle negative thoughts and find ways to avoid anxious thinking patterns.
Support Groups
Most people who suffer from anxiety often feel isolated. Support groups can help these people feel less alone. The members of the groups can also offer their practical wisdom that can help a person find the right healthcare provider, talk to their loved ones about what they are going through, and more.
There is no particular setup for support groups. They can be in-person meetings, anonymous online message boards, or virtual sessions. Some therapists also conduct support groups to help their patients with anxiety. An individual can choose a support group for their anxiety treatment based on their schedule, comfort level, and goals.
Positive Changes to Diet and Nutrition
For some people, positive changes to their diet help reduce their anxiety. Healthcare providers usually suggest the following things:
- Reducing Caffeine Intake: Caffeine is a stimulant that can speed up activity in the brand and body. As a result, you feel more restless and anxious. Try reducing caffeine intake, especially during the later half of the day or before bed.
- Limiting Alcohol Consumption: Some people noticed an improvement in their anxiety symptoms when they quit or reduced their alcohol consumption. Talk to your healthcare provider to get a more personalized suggestion for this issue.
- Keep Track of What You Eat: Some food items are often linked with anxiety in some people. Keep a food log to monitor whether your anxiety gets worse after consuming certain food items. High intake of saturated fats and added sugars are often associated with higher overall anxiety among adults.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you are planning to change your diet and nutrition. You may also try mindfulness meditation to alleviate anxiety symptoms and start living life to the fullest.
Conclusion
In some cases, medications can be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms when used alongside therapies, exercises, and dietary changes. However, never try anything on your own. Always consult a healthcare expert and discuss what you are experiencing. Talking it out will allow the healthcare provider to plan a holistic approach that can help you manage your anxiety symptoms successfully.
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