Everyone experiences occasional anxiety. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, anxiety is a normal response to a stressful situation. The anxious feelings typically pass after the stressful situation subsides. However, if you suffer from consistent, excessive levels of anxiety that last for six months or longer, you may have an anxiety disorder such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder, if your anxiety is accompanied by panic attacks. If you are worried that you may have an anxiety disorder, you should consult your doctor or a licensed mental health professional.
Psychotherapy
According to UMMC, one of the most effective treatments for anxiety is psychotherapy. Your doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist for a medication evaluation and/or to a psychologist, a clinical social worker or a licensed counselor for psychotherapy. You can also obtain a referral to a therapist through your health insurance company. A form of therapy that is particularly beneficial for people who suffer from anxiety is known as cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT. This form of treatment is usually on a short-term basis, around 12 to 16 weeks. It focuses on identifying and changing distorted beliefs and thought patterns you may have that reinforce your anxiety.
Medication
In addition to psychotherapy, your doctor may prescribe an antianxiety medication. Remember that medication cannot cure anxiety, but it can help to alleviate your symptoms. According to UMMC, medications such as benzodiazepines, buspirone and certain antidepressants may all offer potential relief, but you may need to try several before you find one that works for you.
Meditation
You may think that meditation is just an Eastern spiritual practice associated with Buddhism, but it is also an extremely effective way of combating anxiety. According to the Mayo Clinic, meditation can reduce stress, relieve anxiety and help to promote a feeling of inner peace. It helps to slow down the reaction of the central nervous system. Meditation can help you to build coping mechanisms so that you are not so easily provoked by stressful or anxiety-causing events. You can meditate using a guided meditation CD or DVD, available for purchase in most bookstores and online. You might also want to consider enlisting the help of a qualified meditation teacher. You can generally find meditation classes at your local community center or community college. Many yoga studios also offer classes or can refer you to a teacher in your area.
Herbs
Certain herbs can also offer relief from anxiety, but it is crucial that you do not take any herbs in combination with prescription antianxiety medication, as this can cause undesirable or harmful side effects. Talk to your doctor before taking any herbs. According to UMMC, herbs such as valerian, passionflower and chamomile can all alleviate symptoms of anxiety. You can generally purchase these herbs in most grocery stores and drugstores in either tea, capsule or dried form.
