Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older. That is 18% of the population! Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is one of the most common types of anxiety disorder, and it can be very debilitating. If you suffer from GAD, you know how hard it can be to control your triggers. In this blog post, we will discuss some generalized anxiety disorder treatment options that can help you control your triggers and live a normal life.
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What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common and chronic mental health disorder characterized by excessive worrying, fear, and tension. People with GAD often experience physical symptoms such as headaches, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, muscle tension, irritability, restlessness, and trembling. They also may experience difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
The Best Generalized Anxiety Disorder Treatment
There are a few of the best-generalized anxiety disorder treatments available to help manage symptoms and prevent exacerbations:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps people to identify and challenge negative thoughts and behaviors. It focuses on helping individuals to recognize and change unhealthy patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that may be contributing to anxiety. It works to reframe thoughts, challenge distorted beliefs and develop problem-solving skills that can help people manage their anxiety symptoms. For GAD, CBT can help individuals to become more aware of their triggers and learn how to react differently or prevent an anxiety attack.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
ACT is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals to accept their thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. It helps them to develop an attitude of openness and acceptance toward their experiences rather than trying to resist or control them. This can be beneficial for people with GAD because it encourages them to confront their fears and accept their thoughts and feelings without letting them take over.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on understanding how unconscious thoughts, feelings, and motivations can influence behavior. It works to identify these underlying issues and help individuals learn how to manage their emotions in healthier ways. This type of therapy can be particularly useful for GAD because it helps people understand the root cause of their anxiety, which can provide an opportunity to make necessary changes.
Medication
Medications may be prescribed in some cases to reduce symptoms of GAD. Common medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and benzodiazepines. While medications can be effective in reducing symptoms, they do not address the underlying causes and they tend to have undesirable side effects. A few antidepressants like venlafaxine, escitalopram, and paroxetine are FDA approved for the treatment of GAD. Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin are the most commonly prescribed for GAD.
Benzodiazepines and Buspirone are common anxiolytics and anti-anxiety medications that may also be prescribed in cases of GAD.
Can Generalised Anxiety Be Cured?
The goal of treatment for generalized anxiety disorder is to reduce symptoms and improve basic functioning. While there is no cure for GAD, it can be managed effectively with the right combination of therapies, self-help strategies, medications, and lifestyle changes. With the help of a mental health professional, most people with GAD are able to find relief from their symptoms and live a fuller life.
How To Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder Naturally?
There are various ways to manage GAD naturally. These include:
Regular Exercise
Exercise can help to reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins, hormones that act as natural painkillers. It can also help to boost mood and self-esteem. This can be beneficial for people with GAD because it helps to reduce worrying and fear. It is best to exercise for at least 30 minutes for 3-4 days a week.
Mindfulness And Relaxation Techniques
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques involve focusing on one’s thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the present moment without judgment. This can be beneficial for people with GAD because it helps them to refocus their attention away from anxious thoughts and worries. Examples of mindfulness activities include yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery.
Get Enough Sleep And A Healthy Diet
Sleep is essential for physical and mental health. Lack of sleep can make anxiety symptoms worse so it is important to get enough rest. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, avoid caffeine close to bedtime, establish a regular sleep routine, and limit screen time before going to bed. Eating a balanced and nutritious diet can also help to reduce anxiety symptoms. It is important to eat healthy, whole foods and limit the intake of processed and sugary foods.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies may also be useful in managing GAD. Herbs such as valerian root, passionflower, and chamomile can have calming effects. It is important to note that herbal remedies should not replace professional medical care. Some of them are not regulated by the FDA and may have interactions with medications.
Keep A Journal and Self- Care
Journaling can help to reduce symptoms of GAD by providing an outlet for thoughts and feelings. Writing down worries or fears can help to break the cycle of rumination, as it provides a sense of relief from anxious thoughts. Self-care is also important when managing GAD. This includes activities such as spending time in nature, reading a book, listening to music, or taking a relaxing bath. Practicing self-care can help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
How To Get Started With The Treatment Of Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
There are several steps to take when starting the treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. The first step is to consult with a doctor or mental health professional who can assess your symptoms and provide a diagnosis. Once diagnosed, the doctor may recommend medication and/or therapy to help manage GAD. Talking to family and friends about your diagnosis and seeking social support can also be beneficial. Finding a support group for people with GAD can provide additional emotional support and help reduce isolation. Finally, getting professional help to develop a tailored treatment plan and incorporating healthy lifestyle habits can be key for managing GAD in the long term.
Conclusion
Generalized anxiety disorder is a common mental health condition that can affect people of all ages. Symptoms include persistent worry and fear, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. While there is no cure for GAD, it can be managed effectively with the right combination of therapies, self-help strategies, medications, and lifestyle changes. With the help of a mental health professional, most people with GAD are able to find relief from their symptoms and live a fuller life.
For more information, please contact MantraCare. Anxiety is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of worry, fear, and apprehension. If you have any queries regarding Online Anxiety Counseling experienced therapists at MantraCare can help: Book a trial Anxiety therapy session
