Many different forms of anti anxiety medication can be used from SSRI, to SNRI to more powerful benzodiazepine medications. SSRI or SNRI medications are typically used for long term treatment periods, whereas benzodiazepine medication is designed to treat panic disorder. Finally, there are other types of medications which are in a class of their own like Busprione.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
At some point in our lives, most of us will experience anxiety. It’s actually a natural reaction to many stressors such as starting a new job, taking final exams, and becoming a new parent.
Now for many people, the anxiety will subside once the stressor goes away. But for others, anxiety becomes persistent and even excessive, even without obvious stressors, interfering with daily life. In these cases, the person is diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. It is possible at that point a patient considers trying anti anxiety medication at that point.
Types of Anxiety Disorders
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, roughly 31% of adults in this country will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their life. In fact, according to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the United States.
Anxiety disorders include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Panic disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Social anxiety disorder
- Phobias
- Separation anxiety disorder
- Agoraphobia
- Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety can trigger symptoms such as:
- Excessive fear and worrying
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Panic
- Irritability
- Irrational fear of danger
- Racing thoughts
- Shortness of breath or rapid breathing
- Sleep issues
- Headache and stomachache
- Pounding heart
- Insomnia
- Trembling
- Muscle tension
How are Anxiety Orders Treated?
If you are suffering with an anxiety disorder, life may feel overwhelming most of the time. But know that there is help out there for you. Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, can reduce or eliminate your uncomfortable symptoms. Your therapist can also assess you to see if you are a good candidate for an anti-anxiety medication, at least to start. Of course, I have found there are plenty of alternative options, such as deep breathing, acupuncture, and other relaxation techniques, that have helped my clients find calm and peace.
Who Can Treat Your Anxiety? Psychiatrist versus Therapist
Psychiatrists and therapists are both mental health professionals, but they have different roles and training, and they often work together to provide comprehensive mental health care. Here are the key differences between them:
Psychiatrist:
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses. They undergo medical school training, followed by residency in psychiatry, which includes both medical and psychiatric training. This enables them to prescribe medication, provide medical assessments, and offer a wide range of therapeutic interventions. If you live in Maryland, you can meet with a Baltimore Psychiatrist or an Annapolis Psychiatrist. Furthermore, it is also possible to meet for an online psychiatry appointment as well.
Therapist:
Therapists, also known as counselors or psychotherapists, come from diverse educational backgrounds. They may hold master’s or doctoral degrees in fields like psychology, counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy. Their training focuses on providing talk therapy and counseling to individuals, couples, families, or groups.
Conclusion
If you’d like to explore medication or therapy options, please reach out to a train professional to get the best treatment.