Therapy Vs Medication For Anxiety
Psychotherapists and psychiatrists treat anxiety disorders with a range of psychotherapy and medication methods. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), for instance, teaches individuals how to alter their thought patterns and behaviors that cause anxiety.
CBT is often the first treatment choice for those suffering from severe anxiety or panic disorder. Studies have demonstrated that CBT can be just as effective at relieving symptoms as medication, and in some cases may even be more successful.
Medication is another option for anxiety disorders, though it’s less common. Your provider may suggest antidepressants or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which may improve how you feel and reduce panic attacks. These drugs should usually be taken for several months and then discontinued if no longer necessary.
Some medications, like benzodiazepines, may lead to addiction if taken long-term; thus they may not be the best choice for everyone. Beta-blockers can also be prescribed which help reduce physical signs of anxiety such as shakiness or trembling.
Non-drug treatments for anxiety can also be effective. These may involve lifestyle modifications like exercising and stress management techniques, as well as support groups and coping skills training. With these in place, you may feel more relaxed, avoid triggers, and develop a healthier outlook.
Your healthcare provider will evaluate the severity and appropriateness of your symptoms before making a determination regarding medication or therapy use for anxiety. They’ll collaborate with you to find the most beneficial treatment option and establish appropriate dosages and timing.
Your healthcare provider will discuss your symptoms, medical history and family background to gain a comprehensive understanding of your needs. They then create an individualized treatment plan for you that may include medication as well as psychotherapy.
Medication can provide some relief from certain anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder and social phobia. Doctors usually prescribe tricyclic antidepressants or anti-seizure drugs to treat these conditions; these medicines act on the brain to enhance moods and reduce anxiety levels; however, they may also cause side effects.
Hydroxyzine, an antihistamine which acts on the brain to reduce activity, is another medication commonly used for treating anxiety. While less addictive than benzodiazepines, hydroxyzine may provide some relief for people needing more control over their anxiety levels.
Before finding the medication that works best for you, your healthcare provider will monitor your progress to see if symptoms improve and then they can adjust treatment as necessary.
Your therapist can suggest a combination of medication and psychotherapy that can help manage your anxiety. They may prescribe an selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), tricyclic antidepressant, or benzodiazepine to address the problem.
They might suggest hypnotherapy, where a therapist demonstrates cognitive behavior therapy or another similar method to relieve your anxiety. During this session, your therapist will teach you coping strategies that you can apply in the future to stop or prevent future anxious episodes.