How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
There are many reasons to be concerned. But people with GAD suffer from a constant anxiety-like state that can affect their school, work and relationships.
GAD may be caused by genetics, trauma or chronic medical conditions. Treatment options include psychotherapy and medication.
Medications
It is important to talk with your doctor about the benefits and potential side 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 drugs can be effective in reducing anxiety, and they may also improve depression and other mental health disorders. These medications are typically taken for a short time and are typically used in conjunction with psychotherapy.
SSRIs block presynaptic transporters of serotonin so that it is accessible for release. SNRIs inhibit reuptakes of dopamine, norepinephrine 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 typically the first-line treatment for psychiatric disorders such as panic disorder and major depressive disorder (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 the majority of people with anxiety disorders don't respond to initial medication treatments. It can take as long as six weeks for symptoms to improve. Therefore, it is important to stick to your treatment plan. If you don't feel better after a few months, speak with your doctor about adjusting the dosage or switching medications.
Some antidepressants that are older and monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) are also sometimes useful in the treatment of anxiety disorders. These medications are less effective than SSRIs or SNRIs. They are more likely to cause sedation and may cause more serious adverse reactions than the more recent medications.
There is also a lack of research on the efficacy of guanfacine and clonidine in the treatment of anxiety. Nevertheless, many studies indicate that these drugs are more effective than placebos. The addition of psychotherapy to the use of these drugs increases the adherence to treatment and reduces adverse effects.
Talking therapy
GAD is a very common mental illness, but it is difficult to treat. There are many treatment options. Medicine is commonly used to treat anxiety-related symptoms. Self-help and talk therapy techniques can help manage symptoms with time. Support groups are available for people with GAD.
Everyone experiences anxiety at times, but those with GAD suffer from an unstoppable anxiety that affects their daily activities. Restlessness, difficulty concentrating and muscle tension are a few of the symptoms. The main focus of worry is things that are routine, like work-related obligations, family health, and minor concerns, such as car repairs, chores, and appointments.
GAD sufferers might not know the root of their anxiety, and these feelings can last for up to six months. They may also avoid situations which trigger anxiety. Symptoms of this disorder are often first noticed in childhood or adolescence. The symptoms can become more severe during times of stress or illness, and can even persist into adulthood.
GAD can affect certain people more than others. However there is no reason for this. Some theories suggest that it could be a genetic predisposition or a combination factors such as temperament or the influence of the environment. A traumatic event or a major life change like divorce or the death of someone loved one can trigger the disorder.
There are many methods to treat GAD and the combination of treatments is the most effective. Talking therapies, for instance cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can be an effective method to manage your anxiety. This type of therapy helps you identify and modify negative thought patterns which can cause anxiety. It can also help you to face your fears in a secure environment, instead of avoiding them.
Taking steps to relieve anxiety can help live a more relaxed and happier life. Try exercising or meditation to help relax your mind and body. Spending time with your loved ones and family can help you feel less lonely. You might also try a relaxing technique, like deep breathing or guided visualization. You can join a support group for anxiety, to find support and understanding from people who have had similar experiences.
Self-help groups
Every person experiences nervousness or anxiety at some time in their lives. These kinds of feelings are normal. However, people suffering from GAD have persistent, excessive anxiety that they are unable to control. They worry that bad things could happen and their anxiety affects their daily lives. The symptoms last at least six months, and are not caused by an illness.
There are several ways to treat GAD. The first is psychotherapy or "talk therapy," which is a kind of treatment that requires talking to professionals in mental health like a psychiatrist or psychologist. It can help you identify and change negative thoughts, emotions and behavior. Psychotherapy can teach you coping techniques, such as relaxation techniques or stress management.
Another method of treating GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT teaches you to identify and challenge your maladaptive thinking patterns. generalized anxiety disorder treatment will also help you gain control over your worry and gradually return to activities that you've avoided because of anxiety. CBT can be incorporated to boost the effectiveness of treatment.
Medication is usually the most effective treatment for GAD. The medications from the selective serotonin reuptake inhibit (SSRI) or serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibition (SNRI), such as duloxetine and escitalopram are frequently first-line treatments. These antidepressants decrease anxiety by altering the balance of chemicals within your brain.
Self-help groups are a good alternative for those who cannot afford to see a specialist or are unable to commit to therapy. They meet regularly to offer support to those with the same condition. Some groups are managed by professionals, whereas others are more informal and self-organized. The meetings last for about one and a quarter hours, and participants discuss their experiences. Some groups charge a fee, however, others do not.
Some factors that contribute to GAD include genetics, a person's temperament and the impact of environmental events. For example the child could develop anxiety if parents have the condition. Also, a traumatic event can cause anxiety. Certain conditions, such as an excessive thyroid gland, may increase the likelihood of developing this disorder.
Psychotherapy
The most effective form of psychotherapy for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It teaches you specific skills that can help you manage your worries. CBT assists you to gradually resume activities you avoided because of anxiety-related symptoms. As time passes anxiety levels decrease as you build up on your successes. Working closely with your mental healthcare professional will ensure you adhere to the treatment plan. Do not use herbal remedies or supplements as a method of treating anxiety because they could interact with your medication.
In a recent systematic review and network meta-analysis clinical trials that were randomized, CBT was associated with both acute and long-term effectiveness and acceptance for treating generalized anxiety disorder in adults. CBT treatments like cue-controlling, self-affirmations in alternative ways and relaxation training were all found to be effective. Other psychotherapies, including interpersonal therapy and schematherapy, were also proven to be highly effective.
A psychological treatment called psychodynamic therapy can help you recognize negative patterns of behavior rooted in your past experiences. This treatment uses open-ended questions that reveal subconscious patterns that cause anxiety. Therapy with a counselor can help you improve your relationships with others.
Schema therapy helps you overcome negative thoughts and behaviors that are rooted in childhood traumas. It is often used to address unresolved childhood traumas. However, it can also be effective in treating anxiety disorders. During schema sessions, your therapist guides your eye movements to process your trauma in a way that doesn't cause anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety can be debilitating. It is essential to seek treatment as soon as you can. With the right treatment, you can manage your symptoms and lead a an enjoyable, full life. If you're suffering from 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 there to help you get control of your life.