Anxiety disorders are the most common mental condition in the United States, affecting approximately forty million of the adult population aged eighteen and above. Sadly, in fear of being ridiculed, people rarely seek professional help. This is one of the biggest reason why a lot of people suffer from anxiety disorders even if it is one of the most manageable mental conditions.
Thanks to the advancement in medical science and research, different forms of interventions and treatment have been developed to help people in overcoming anxiety and panic attacks. Here are some of the commonly used treatments:
l Medications. Although medications are not a sure fire cure for your anxiety disorders, it is an effective means o relieving symptoms of anxiety attacks. A wide variety of medications are currently being used to treat anxiety disorders, these include the traditional anti-anxiety drugs, anti-depressants, and beta-blockers. The only down side to this form of treatment is that the medications are habit forming, so it is best to follow the doctor’s specified dosing amount and duration to prevent this from happening.
l Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This treatment focuses on correcting maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. This treatment helps sufferers pinpoint their irrational thoughts and beliefs that are holding them back from functioning normally through their fears. This treatment also challenges sufferers to break free from those negative thoughts. CBT also deals with exposing sufferers to the object of their fears in a safe and controlled environment. CBT aims to help patients learn how to deal with stressful situations in able for them to start overcoming anxiety.
l Natural and herbal treatments. There are herbal remedies available in the market that have been said to treat anxiety. However, the safety and efficacy of using such products have not been well-observed, It is also important to keep in mind that these herbal medications may conflict with any existing medication you may be taking for your anxiety.
l Relaxation techniques. These relaxation techniques include: progressive muscle relaxation, controlled breathing, and guided imagery. These techniques are aimed to reducing and resolving physical stress that may be contributing to the anxiety attack.
l Hypnotherapy. This form of therapy is conducted by a licensed clinical hypnotherapist by using different therapeutic techniques while you are in a state of deep relaxation.
A healthy and balanced lifestyle helps a lot in controlling and reducing anxiety attacks. Here are some ways to keep anxiety at bay:
l Exercise regularly. Exercise is an effective treatment for anxiety as it promotes endorphin production in the body which serves as a natural relaxant. Engaging in yoga or aerobic exercises may also be particularly calming.
l Get adequate sleep. A lack of sleep may aggravate anxiety.
l Keep a healthy diet. A healthy and well-balanced diet may help in the battle against anxiety and stress.
l Meditate. Common types of meditation techniques used to reduce anxiety are: mindfulness, walking meditation, and transcendental meditation. This helps the mind relax and achieve a state of calm.
l Avoid alcohol and drugs. Substances won’t help relieve you of your anxieties. These may only make the problems worse, and may even affect your body.
l Eliminate caffeine in your diet. Caffeine is a form of stimulant which may stimulate anxiety or panic attacks and may also cause insomnia. It is best to steer clear of such substances to prevent triggering panic attacks.
l Cultivate a support system. Spending time with people who support and love you may help relax you and make you feel good. It makes you less vulnerable to anxiety knowing that you’re in the company of people who genuinely care for you.
Overcoming anxiety may not be an easy battle to face. But it is comforting to know that you have a lot of options available to help battle this condition. With a little professional help, emotional support, and the will power to defeat the monster within, you’ll soon be able to live free from anxiety.
