Anxiety treatment

Generalized anxiety disorders are treated with either drugs, or psychotherapy, or both.

Anxiety Medications

A variety of medications are used in the treatment of anxiety. These are classified as follows.

A) Anti-anxiety drugs – Also known as sedatives or tranquilizers, these medications rapidly ease anxiety. However, these are prescribed only for short periods since many such drugs are habit-forming.

B) Anti-depressants – These medications modify the activity of certain neurotransmitters, which are believed to be responsible for the development of anxiety disorders. Many anti-depressants require several weeks to be fully effective. A trial-and-error method may help determine which drug is most effective for you, with the least side effects.

Psychotherapy for Anxiety

Psychotherapy involves counselling sessions with a mental health provider. Patients with GAD benefit from cognitive behaviour therapy. This helps you to learn to recognize and develop control over feelings and emotions, which induce anxiety.

Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga may help ease physical symptoms of anxiety.

Treatment for anxiety states needs to be tailored to individual needs. Most people are treated on an outpatient basis, but some may require the treatment to be administered in a hospital setting.