How an Anxiety Disorder Is Treated

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Understanding Treatment Options

Prescription Medications

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry accompanied by other symptoms. A healthcare provider can help you find the right treatment options to manage this condition.

When you start the process, you may begin by seeing a primary care physician, who may refer you to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or other mental health professional for treatment. These specialists focus on treating anxiety disorders.

Prescription medications cannot cure GAD, but they can help manage symptoms. Before taking any medication, discuss possible side effects and ensure you mention all other prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Common prescription medications for GAD include antidepressants and antianxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines. Antidepressants include:

• Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Specifically, SSRIs include:

• Prozac (fluoxetine)
• Paxil (paroxetine)
• Zoloft (sertraline)
• Lexapro (escitalopram)

SNRIs include:

• Cymbalta (duloxetine)
• Effexor XR (venlafaxine hydrochloride)

Therapies

Psychotherapy, also called talk therapy, is a common treatment for GAD. In talk therapy, you discuss your condition with a therapist, working to understand, reduce, and manage your symptoms.

A combination of prescription medications and psychotherapy may be recommended. Your healthcare provider may suggest cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you cope with GAD. CBT teaches you to change thinking patterns and behaviors, focusing on helping you change how you react to situations that trigger anxiety. You identify and modify thoughts that cause anxiety.

Lifestyle

There are lifestyle changes you can make to help cope with GAD. Consult your healthcare provider before making significant changes and reach out to others for support.

Sleep

Get enough sleep every night to help your overall health and GAD. If you’re experiencing sleep problems, talk to your healthcare provider.

Diet

Your diet affects how you feel, so eating healthy is essential. Consider eliminating caffeine and alcohol, as they may worsen GAD symptoms.

Exercise

Exercise helps reduce stress and may help manage GAD symptoms. Try to stay active every day and consider joining a gym or fitness group.

Avoid Smoking

Research shows that quitting nicotine products and avoiding smoking can reduce anxiety. Ask your healthcare provider for help if you’re struggling to quit and have an addiction.

Support Groups

Ask your healthcare provider about local support groups for GAD. Sharing your experiences with others and receiving empathy and connections can be helpful.

A Word from Verywell

You may feel scared or embarrassed about seeking treatment for an anxiety disorder. These feelings are normal, and many people experience them. However, they shouldn’t stop you from seeking the help you need. Be honest and open about your symptoms, and consider seeking a different healthcare provider if you’re not satisfied with the care you’re receiving.

Conclusion

Generalized anxiety disorder is a treatable condition, and with the right treatment, you can manage your symptoms. Consult a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for you. Combine prescription medications with lifestyle changes, such as exercise, healthy eating, and good sleep habits, to help you cope with GAD.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is generalized anxiety disorder?
  • Generalized anxiety disorder is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry accompanied by other symptoms.
• What are common treatments for GAD?
  • Prescription medications, such as antidepressants and antianxiety medications, and psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
• Can I make lifestyle changes to help manage GAD?
  • Yes, consider eliminating caffeine and alcohol, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep to help manage symptoms.

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