How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Everyone feels anxious at times - and there may be reasons to be concerned. People with GAD are in a constant state of anxiety that can affect their work, school or relationships.
Genetics, traumatic events or chronic medical conditions may be the cause of GAD. Treatment options include psychotherapy and medications.
Medicines
There are a variety of medications used to treat GAD and it's recommended to consult your physician 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 drugs can be effective in reducing anxiety and can also help improve depression and other mental health disorders. These medications are usually taken for a brief period of time and are usually combined with psychotherapy.
SSRIs block presynaptic receptors of serotonin to ensure that it is available to release. SNRIs inhibit reuptakes of norepinephrine, dopamine and other neurotransmitters to increase the accessibility of neurotransmitters. Both have been proven to be effective in treating anxiety disorders such as GAD. They are frequently used as the first line treatment for mental disorders like panic disorder or major depressive disorder. These include escitalopram (also called citalopram) and sertraline (also called sertraline) duloxetine, fluoxetine, 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 in mind that the majority of people suffering from anxiety disorders aren't responding to the first medication treatment. It could take between four and six weeks before symptoms begin to improve, which is why it's important to stick to your treatment plan. If you don't see improvement after several weeks, speak with your doctor about changing your dosage or taking a different medication.
Certain antidepressants from the past and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) are also beneficial in the treatment of anxiety disorders. However, these medications are not as well-proven than SSRIs and SNRIs. They can cause more sedation, and can cause more serious adverse side effects than the newer medications.
There is limited research on clonidine and guanfacine as treatment for anxiety. However, many studies show that these medications are more effective than placebos. The addition of psychotherapy to the use of these medications increases treatment adherence and decreases reported adverse reactions.
Talking therapy
GAD is a common mental illness, however it is difficult to treat. There are several treatment options. Medication is often employed to alleviate anxiety symptoms. Talking therapy and self-help techniques can help with symptoms over time. People with GAD are also able to join a support group to receive more support.
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time, but those with GAD have a constant state of anxiety that can affect their daily activities. Anxiety, irritability and muscle tension are just a few of the signs. Worries are usually focused on things that are routine, like work-related obligations, family health and even minor issues such as chores, repairs to the car, and appointments.
People suffering from GAD might not be able to identify the source of their anxiety, and the feelings persist for at minimum six months. They may also avoid situations which trigger anxiety. People suffering from this disorder usually begin experiencing symptoms in the early years of childhood or adolescence. The symptoms can become more severe during times of stress or illness, and may even persist into adulthood.
GAD can affect some people more than others. However there isn't a reason for this. There are theories that suggest it could be a genetic predisposition or a combination of factors like temperament and the influence of the environment. A traumatizing event or major life change like divorce or death of a loved one could cause the disorder.
There are many different methods to treat GAD however the combination of treatments is the most efficient. Talking therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are an effective method of reducing anxiety. This kind of therapy can help you identify and alter negative thinking patterns that lead to anxiety. It can also help you to face your fears in a safe setting, rather than avoid them.
Doing something to ease anxiety can help you lead a healthier and happier life. You can try exercise or meditation to help calm your body and mind. Spending time with your loved ones and family can help you feel less alone. You can also use relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or guided visualization. You can join an online support group to assist you in finding compassion and understanding.
Self-help groups
Everyone is anxious or nervous at some time and these feelings are normal aspects of life. People suffering from GAD however, experience excessive or unrealistic worries that they cannot control. They fear that things will go wrong and their anxiety can affect their daily lives. The symptoms last for at least six months, and are not caused by any medical issue.
There are a myriad of methods to treat GAD. The first option is psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," a type that involves speaking to professionals in the field of mental health like psychiatrist or psychologist. It can help you learn to recognize and change negative thoughts, emotions and behavior. Psychotherapy can teach you strategies for coping, such as stress management or relaxation techniques.
Another approach to treat GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT helps you identify and confront your unadaptive thinking patterns. It can also help you regain control over your worry and gradually return to activities that you have avoided due to anxiety. CBT can be combined to increase the effectiveness of treatment.
Medication is usually the most effective way to treat GAD. Treatments based on the selective serotonin reuptake inhibit (SSRI) or serotonin norepinephrine-reuptake inhibition (SNRI), such as duloxetine and escitalopram are frequently first-line treatments. These antidepressants can reduce anxiety by changing the balance of chemicals within your brain.
Self-help groups can be a good alternative for those who can't afford to see a specialist or are unable to commit to a therapy session. These groups meet regularly to provide support to those with the same disorder. Some groups are run by professionals while others are self-organized and informal. The meetings last for about one and a quarter hours, and participants share their personal experiences. Most groups accept a donation or a donation, while some have no charges at all.
Genetics, temperament, and environmental factors are all factors that can contribute to GAD. For instance, a child may develop anxiety if his or her parents suffer from the condition. An event that is traumatic can trigger anxiety. Certain underlying diseases such as an overactive thyroid gland, can also increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for GAD. It is focused on teaching you specific techniques to directly manage your worries. CBT will also assist you to gradually return to activities that you had avoided due to anxiety-related symptoms. As time passes your anxiety will decrease as you build on your successes. Working closely with your mental health professional will ensure you adhere to the treatment plan. Do not use supplements or herbal remedies as a method of treating anxiety since they may interact with your medication.
In a recent systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials, CBT was associated with both acute and long-term effectiveness and acceptability in treating generalized anxiety disorder in adults. CBT treatments like cue-controlling, self-affirmations in alternative ways and relaxation training were all found to be efficient. A variety of other psychotherapies were also found be effective, such as interpersonal therapy and schema therapy.
A psychological treatment called psychodynamic therapy can help you recognize negative patterns of behavior rooted in your previous experiences. This treatment uses open-ended questions to reveal the subconscious patterns that cause anxiety. Interpersonal therapy can also teach you how to improve your relationships with others.
Schema therapy can help you overcome abnormal behaviors and thoughts that are linked to childhood traumas. It is typically used to address unresolved childhood traumas. However, it is also effective in treating anxiety disorders. During the schema sessions, your therapist will guide your eye movements in order to process your trauma in a way that doesn't cause anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety can be a crippling issue. It is essential to seek treatment as soon as you can. You can control your symptoms by undergoing the appropriate treatment and lead a healthy and fulfilled life. Contact Active Path Mental Health for more information on our services or to make a a first appointment if you are struggling with anxiety. IamPsychiatry have offices in Oregon and Washington and will help you regain control of your life.