Psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication are effective treatments for anxiety disorders. Different medications help manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, including benzodiazepines and certain types of antidepressants, such as fluoxetine, citalopram, and tricyclic antidepressants. Sleeping, exercising, and learning stress management techniques can also reduce anxiety symptoms.
Seek Help
It is essential to seek help for anxiety disorders because, left untreated, they can lead to clinical depression, which has a high risk of suicide. They may also damage a person’s relationships with family, friends, and coworkers and their capacity for work, study, and daily tasks. People who suffer from an anxiety disorder have excessive fear and worry about specific events or, in the case of generalized anxiety disorder, a broad range of situations. People with anxiety disorders frequently avoid the circumstances that make them anxious because of the symptoms, ranging from moderate to severe.
Treatment options for anxiety disorders range widely and include:
- Psychotherapy (talk therapy).
- Herbal and dietary supplements.
- Yoga and relaxation exercises.
- Prescription drugs.
Proper treatment can improve a person’s quality of life, but overcoming anxiety and learning new coping skills takes time. People seeking help from Kairos Wellness Collective sooner rather than later are likelier to get better.
Talk to Someone
While it is expected to have some worries or fears, people with anxiety disorders have frequent and excessive feelings of fear, worry, and panic in everyday situations. These feelings are disproportionate to the actual danger or situation and can interfere with daily life. It’s important to talk with a friend or loved one with these symptoms and encourage them to seek help. Some mental health professionals specialize in treating anxiety and offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that teaches skills to help manage negative thoughts and emotions.
Your friends and loved ones probably want to be helpful and reassure you, but often, they don’t know what to say or do. They may try to help by reassuring you or analyzing your problem and trying to “figure it out.” These efforts can backfire and feed the anxiety. They can also make you feel like the problem is your fault or that they can do nothing to fix it.
Stay Positive
Occasional anxiety is a normal part of life, but people with anxiety disorders experience extreme and persistent fear or worry that goes beyond a temporary feeling of stress. They have difficulty overcoming their fears and often avoid situations that make them anxious. It’s important to stay positive and remember that your anxiety symptoms are not permanent. Finding treatment alternatives might be facilitated by speaking with your healthcare professional.
A combination of medications and counseling is usually the best way to manage anxiety. Keeping a solid support system is also essential. Try to spend time with people who make you feel safe and loved. You can calm down by engaging in relaxation practices like yoga and meditation. Try to get enough sleep. A healthy diet and exercise may also help reduce your anxiety. Studies show that imagining positive events, even unrelated to your worries, can decrease their impact on you. It might also be helpful to repeat or write down positive affirmations.
Moreover, exploring techniques for natural anxiety relief, such as mindfulness or deep breathing exercises, can further alleviate your symptoms.
Take Care of Yourself
Anxiety can be debilitating and affect your work, family life, relationships, and health. It is essential to seek treatment early. Different treatments for anxiety disorders exist, and each person may respond differently. Some people may find relief through psychotherapy, often known as talk therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, teaches you new ways of thinking and responding that might help you feel less worried. Medications can also provide relief from the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as trembling and rapid heartbeat. They can be used on their own or in combination with psychotherapy. Many people find that having a support network helps them cope and recover from anxiety. You can find support groups in person or online to meet with others experiencing the same feelings and emotions. You should avoid substances that can worsen your symptoms, such as caffeine, over-the-counter cold medicines, and herbal remedies. Your doctor can recommend medication that will best suit your condition.