It’s normal to be anxious sometimes, whether it be from speaking in front of a crowd, taking an airplane flight or going on a job interview, all can trigger anxiety. But for a lot of people, anxiety isn’t just a once-in-a-while case of the jitters. It’s a mental health problem that affects how they function. Show
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 million adults in the U.S., or more than 18 percent of the population, have anxiety disorders every year. Saurabh Jauhari, MD, a psychiatrist at Banner Health Center in Sun City West, AZ, said that for many people, fear of anxiety is more troublesome than actual anxiety. For example, your apprehension about a job interview can be worse than the anxiety you experience during the interview. Fortunately, anxiety responds well to treatment. Your doctor may recommend a prescription medication for your anxiety—here’s what to know about six of the most commonly prescribed types of medication. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)SSRIs and SNRIs are often the first-line treatment for anxiety. Common SSRI brands are Celexa, Lexapro, Luvox, Paxil, and Zoloft. Common SNRI brands are Pristiq, Cymbalta, and Effexor XR.
VistarilVistaril is an antihistamine that can treat itching from allergies as well as anxiety.
BusparBuspar increases your levels of the feel-good neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.
Abilify and SeroquelAbilify and Seroquel are antipsychotic drugs that can treat a range of mental health and mood disorders by helping to balance certain brain chemicals.
BenzodiazepinesBenzodiazepines are tranquilizers—common types are diazepam (Valium), alprazolam ( Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan)..
Beta blockersThe beta blocker Propranolol is approved for social anxiety.
With all these options, how can you choose?Your doctor can recommend the best medication to help control your anxiety. There are different types of anxiety disorders, so different medications may be better choices for your type. Your doctor will also consider your other health conditions and medications, and whether you have a family history of responding better to a certain medication. Since you might be taking medication long-term, you may want to factor in affordability. What other treatments can help manage anxiety?Medications for anxiety are safe and effective and are good options for many people. But some people want to avoid medication, and some want to combine medication with other treatments. You can try:
The bottom line“Anxiety can be debilitating but it is treatable,” Dr. Jauhari said. With the right therapies, lifestyle changes, and medication, you can control your anxiety and you’ll be able to function well, be productive and live your life. For a referral to a Banner Health mental health professional who can help treat your anxiety, visit bannerhealth.com. To learn more about anxiety and mental health issues, check out:
Join the Conversation Which drug is most rapidly effective for generalized anxiety?Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
They are considered as effective as the SSRIs and are the first-line treatment for GAD.
How do you calm down generalized anxiety disorder?Try these when you're feeling anxious or stressed:. Take a time-out. ... . Eat well-balanced meals. ... . Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can aggravate anxiety and trigger panic attacks.. Get enough sleep. ... . Exercise daily to help you feel good and maintain your health. ... . Take deep breaths. ... . Count to 10 slowly. ... . Do your best.. What is the most effective treatment for anxiety disorders?Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders. Generally a short-term treatment, CBT focuses on teaching you specific skills to improve your symptoms and gradually return to the activities you've avoided because of anxiety.
What is firstSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are generally considered first-line therapy for GAD and PD.
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