Treating Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress, but when it becomes an abnormal, pathological dread of everyday situations, it is a disabling disorder that can interfere with a person's ability to function normally in society. The blanket term, "anxiety disorders," includes different recognized types of behavior, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTST). Phobias are excessive fear reactions to a specific object or situation, such as social phobia, agoraphobia or separation anxiety.

These anxiety disorders can range from mild to crippling. Treatment varies by individual, but may include lifestyle changes, medication and therapy. Simply engaging in regular aerobic activity, eliminating or at least reducing caffeine, and getting more sleep can help some people. Meditation has been successful in reducing symptoms of anxiety for some people.

Cognitive behavioral therapy has better long-term success than medication, but the two treatments are often combined. Medication options vary according to the type and severity of anxiety disorder. In general, SSRIs like Paxil and Lexapro are usually a first-line of defense. For short-term use only, due to their addictive nature, a doctor might prescribe SNRIs such as Valium or Xanax. Other classes of drugs that might be prescribed include GABA analogues, MAOIs, or an atypical antipsychotic.

It may take some time and experimentation to find the right treatment or combination of treatments. This can be discouraging, but by persevering and working closely with the doctor, most people can find the treatment option that works for them and resume a normal life.