Anxiety is an uncomfortable sensation of apprehension and worry. It involves both mental and physical components. Mild anxiety may be beneficial in some instances, but moderate to severe anxiety or long-standing anxiety is harmful to the individual. The stress hormone present in anxiety can weaken the immune system over time, leaving the sufferer more susceptible to medical complications.
Types of Anxiety
Several types of anxiety may require treatment. Short-term anxiety may result from a recent or impending catastrophe or crisis. Long-term anxiety may be the result of a type of anxiety disorder, including social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder or phobia. Other medical conditions may cause severe symptoms of anxiety.
Demographics
Anxiety can strike at any age. Both males and females are susceptible to anxiety severe enough to require treatment. The text "Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing" reports that anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the United States.
Drug Types
Psychiatrists and other medical professionals employ several types of drugs to treat anxiety. The choice is dependent on the preference of the physician, the length of time the anxiety has been present, the type and severity of anxiety, the age of the sufferer and other conditions he may have. These medications are usually given by mouth; some of them are rarely administered by injection into the muscle or vein. Some are taken on a regular basis while others are taken only as needed.
Benzodiazepines may be used to treat short-term anxiety, explains MayoClinic.com. Antidepressants, including tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors may be utilized to treat long-term anxiety disorders. Anti-psychotic drugs and sedatives are sometimes used to treat symptoms of severe anxiety.
Side Effects
A drug that relieves anxiety is not without side effects. While some patients experience no adverse effects, others may feel sedated, dizzy or confused. Other side effects include nausea, depression, blurry vision and memory problems, explains HelpGuide.org. Mouth dryness, constipation, loss of energy and difficulty maintaining balance may also manifest. Driving and other critical tasks should be avoided until it is determined that the medicine does not make the individual experience vision problems or feel dizzy or confused. Some drugs that treat anxiety cause dependence or addiction and some must be tapered off gradually to avoid uncomfortable effects. Occasionally, a medicine to relieve anxiety may have the effect of worsening anxiety or causing rage or unusual excitement.
Other Treatments
Drugs that relieve anxiety are often used in conjunction with other treatments, including psychotherapy and group therapy. Psychotherapy involves talking with a therapist while group therapy involves talking with others who have similar conditions. Most group therapy sessions are led by a therapist. Mental health professionals may also teach anxious individuals new coping mechanisms to deal with anxiety-provoking situations.
References
- "Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing: Concepts of Care in Evidence-Based Practice"; Mary C. Townsend, M.N., A.P.R.N.; 2006
- "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide"; Amy M. Karch, R.N., M.S.; 2010
- Anxiety Disorders Association of America: Medication
- HelpGuide.org: Anxiety Medication
- MayoClinic.com: Generalized Anxiety Disorder
