Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Anxiety Disorder Treatments - Overview Of Effective Anxiety Cure

By Adrian Fletcher

For those suffering from anxiety disorders, there are several treatments available. Aside from the more common practice of prescribing medication, there is usually some form of psychodynamic therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy prescribed as a follow up. For individuals suffering from anxiety who want a more natural approach, massage therapy and using herbal supplements are among the leading natural anxiety disorder treatments.

Usually, the first thing a doctor will try when treating an anxiety disorder is medication. This allows the patient to stabilize, which will open the door to other anxiety disorder treatment options. Antidepressants are often prescribed, such as Paxil or Zoloft. When the patient experiences a panic attack, something that may be used to help would be a mild tranquilizer.

The patient will usually begin therapy of some kind after being prescribed anxiety medication as part of comprehensive anxiety disorder treatments. Behavioral therapy is one possible method of therapy. Gradual exposure to stressful situations in addition to breathing techniques is what this form of therapy builds on. The patient needs to give it his best in order for behavioral therapy to have any effect. If not, the patient will only see minimal results which can lead to frustration and added stress.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a deeper reaching form of psychotherapy for people suffering with an anxiety disorder. The therapy teaches the consumer to identify situations in which they react, and further identify patterns. With this knowledge they can then learn to challenge those reactions, and act differently given a similar situation. CBT is thought to be highly effective when it comes to anxiety disorder treatments.

Psychodynamic therapy is a form of anxiety disorder treatment which theorizes that the problems of the patient are rooted deep within the subconscious due to an unknown conflict. It is a more intangible approach as far as therapy goes. The theory is that the person will not be able to solve the problem until it has been brought into the conscious mind, which would effectively alleviate any symptoms of stress or anxiety.

Although they are not mainstream treatments, natural remedies can also be used to treat anxiety disorder. Valerian root extract, passion flower extract and kava kava are herbs that are frequently used as anxiety disorder treatments. Acupuncture, and massage therapy are also natural remedies that many people swear by. Most of these remedies are readily accessible and gentle on the body with few side effects, with the exception of possible nausea and increased heart rate caused by passion flower.

Having an anxiety disorder can be quite disabling. It can destroy an individuals health, interpersonal relationships and job prospects. Thus any treatment is better than no anxiety disorder treatments at all. Anyone suffering from chronic anxiety or stress needs assistance whether in the form of a prescription medication from their primary care doctor or a homeopathic medicine that they purchase at a neighborhood natural foods store. By consulting with a doctor early on, finding a treatment or combination of treatments will get you on the path to feeling better sooner. - 16004

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