Now that you know about the different types of anxiety that there are as well as some common causes, you probably want to know how you can get treated for anxiety so that you can find relief. There are many things that you can do to help yourself and medications that are available to help you. The worst thing that you can do is to ignore the symptoms and self medicate.
Self medication includes taking drugs or alcohol on your own. Many people who suffer from anxiety are tempted to take a drink to alleviate their symptoms as alcohol can have a numbing effect. As a matter of fact, many people who are alcoholics suffer from anxiety. This is why programs like Alcoholics Anonymous help such individuals. The primary healing factor that is taught at AA is that you do not have to feel that you are “in control” all of the time.
If you go to your doctor after having an anxiety attack, chances are that he or she will put you on medication for the anxiety. Someone who is having a full blown anxiety attack is often thought to be having what used to be known as a “nervous breakdown.”
Doctors will do a blood test and will most likely want to check your thyroid. Many people who suffer from anxiety also have chemical imbalances. They may present with low levels of the B vitamins as well as magnesium, zinc and potassium.
A doctor will often prescribe medication as well as advise you to seek therapy. Your doctor will also most likely tell you to eliminate harmful activities such as smoking or drinking alcohol, to eat right and exercise. All of these can be helpful when you are seeking to prevent or control anxiety and panic attacks.
When you see the doctor the first time, it is very likely that he or she will prescribe both an anti-depressant as well as a an anti-anxiety medication. Doctors are trained to eliminate your discomfort. Medication is the first thing a medical doctor will think of when they determine that you have been experiencing anxiety attacks.
There are two main types of medications that are administered for this type of condition.
- Benzodiazepines; Xanax, Klonopin and Ativan
- Anti-Depressants (SSRI stands for selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors); Zoloft, Paxil, Prozac, Lexapro, Luvox and Celexa
Chances are that your doctor will prescribe SSRIs along with Xanax when you present with an anxiety attack. The Xanax will be meant to be short term and the SSRIs for longer. If you have had repeated episodes of anxiety, your doctor may want to keep you on SSRIs for a long period of time, even for the rest of your life.
Many people find that they feel better after taking SSRIs for a long period of time and then attempt to take themselves off of the drug. Withdrawal from these drugs should be done under the supervision of a doctor and is not something that you should just do on your own.
Before you take yourself off of the drug, you should talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you wean yourself from the drug, if they think that it is a good idea. If you feel your symptoms returning and your anxiety and panic getting worse, you can go back on the anti-depressant.
If you have chronic anxiety and depression, talk to your doctor about a treatment plan. They should be able to tell you how long they expect you to stay on the drug and what results you can expect. It is important for your doctor to monitor your progress when you are on anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medications.
Even with your medication, you may still experience symptoms of panic or anxiety. You can do many things to help yourself try to overcome the anxiety and panic attacks, even if you do not take medications. Because an anxiety attack can be so scary, the reflex is to get rid of the feelings it is producing as soon as possible.
Many people who have milder symptoms of anxiety disorders are choosing not to take medication and are opting for natural relief for their condition. Natural relief includes behavioral therapy, diet, exercise and other methods of treatment such as herbal supplements, yoga and meditation.
It is important for you to take a proactive approach to your health when you are suffering from anxiety attacks. Once you have been diagnosed with anxiety and have it under control, you can find out more about the disorder and try to find the underlying causes. You can also choose to use a natural treatment plan instead of relying on drugs.
