For patients with an anxiety disorder, finding the right treatment can be difficult. Depending on the anxiety disorder---generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder or social and specific phobias---treatment needs can vary. Many patients do not want to use medication to treat their anxiety and look to more natural forms of treatment to cope with their symptoms. Luckily, natural ways are effective in treating anxiety disorder, such as therapy, meditation and breathing techniques.
Therapy
Therapy can be an effective method for treating anxiety without the use of medication. A therapist can help you work through any negative behavior associated with your anxiety disorder. For example, therapy can help patients with post-traumatic stress disorder, an anxiety disorder due to a traumatic event, work through the trauma and come to terms with it.
Meditation
Meditation can greatly help anxiety disorder patients through relaxation and mental focusing. Some people may benefit from a guided meditation tape. First, find a quiet space and sit with your eyes close. Breathing deeply, focus on a calm place like a beach. In your mind, write down all the things that are causing you stress and imagine them being washed away by a wave or gust of wind. As you continue to practice meditation, you will notice your symptoms lessening in intensity.
Breathing Techniques
Breathing techniques can also be used to naturally treat an anxiety disorder. Try the counted breathing exercise; start by breathing in deeply for 5 seconds. Hold your breath for 5 more seconds and then breathe out slowly for five seconds. Before taking in another breath, pause for 5 seconds. Continue doing this breathing technique as long as you need to. As you practice this breathing technique, you will notice your heart rate going down and a release of built-up tension.
