What are the most common anxiety treatments?
Anxiety treatments include various approaches such as therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and support groups. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are common therapeutic methods. Medications like SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines are often prescribed. Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and sufficient sleep, play a crucial role. Take a look at how people are addressing their anxiety with anxiety treatments. Have your say on the list by voting!
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Yoga
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Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It has been shown to help calm the nervous system and improve overall mental health.
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Exercise
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Regular physical activity helps reduce anxiety by increasing the release of endorphins, improving mood, and reducing tension. Exercise also helps regulate stress hormones, such as cortisol.
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Deep breathing
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Deep breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing, can help reduce anxiety by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing the body's fight-or-flight response.
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Sertraline
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Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood and alleviate anxiety symptoms.
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B vitamins
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B vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, are essential for brain health and can help reduce anxiety symptoms. They aid in the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood and stress responses.
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Diazepam
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Diazepam, also known as Valium, is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety. It works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which has a calming effect on the brain.
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Vitamin D
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Vitamin D plays a role in regulating mood and immune function. Low levels of vitamin D are linked to an increased risk of anxiety and depression, so supplementation can help alleviate symptoms.
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Meditation
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Meditation is a mindfulness practice that helps quiet the mind and reduce stress. It has been shown to lower cortisol levels and promote a calm, focused state, making it an effective tool for managing anxiety.
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Relaxation
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Relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery, help reduce physical tension and calm the mind, reducing overall anxiety levels.
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Lyrica
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Lyrica (pregabalin) is an anticonvulsant medication often prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder. It works by reducing nerve activity, which can help alleviate anxiety symptoms.
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Dialectical behavior therapy
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DBT is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. It is often used for anxiety, especially in those with intense emotions.
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Quetiapine / Seroquel
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Quetiapine is an antipsychotic medication used to treat anxiety and mood disorders. It works by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain, helping to alleviate anxiety and improve sleep.
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Wellbutrin
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Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an antidepressant used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.
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Nortriptyline
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Nortriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that can help reduce anxiety by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain. It’s commonly used for generalized anxiety disorder and panic attacks.
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Spending time with animals
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Interacting with pets, especially dogs, can reduce anxiety. Studies show that spending time with animals can lower cortisol levels and trigger the release of oxytocin, promoting feelings of calm and well-being.
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5-HTP supplements
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5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid that helps the body produce serotonin. Supplementing with 5-HTP may help improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms by boosting serotonin levels.
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Tai chi
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Tai Chi is a form of gentle martial arts that combines slow, deliberate movements with focused breathing. It helps to reduce stress, improve balance, and calm the mind, offering relief from anxiety.
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Biofeedback
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Biofeedback is a technique that teaches individuals to control physiological functions, such as heart rate and muscle tension, to reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation.
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Cognitive behavioral therapy
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CBT is a well-known form of psychotherapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. It is considered one of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders.
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Avoiding caffeine
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Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase anxiety in some people. Reducing or eliminating caffeine intake may help reduce symptoms of anxiety by stabilizing energy levels and reducing nervous tension.
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Paroxetine (Paxil)
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Paroxetine is an SSRI used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, helping to improve mood and alleviate anxiety symptoms.
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Acceptance and Commitment therapy
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ACT is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on accepting negative emotions and committing to behaviors that align with personal values. It helps individuals manage anxiety and improve psychological flexibility.
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Xanax
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Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine used for short-term relief of acute anxiety. It works by enhancing GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms brain activity, providing quick relief from anxiety.
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Exposure therapy
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Exposure therapy is a behavioral therapy that involves gradually exposing individuals to anxiety-inducing situations to reduce fear and avoidance behavior. It is effective for phobias and other anxiety disorders.
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Clonazepam
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Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It works by enhancing GABA activity in the brain, leading to a calming effect.
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GABA supplements
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GABA supplements are thought to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. GABA is a neurotransmitter that has calming effects on the nervous system.
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Calcium
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Calcium plays a role in nerve transmission and muscle function. Adequate calcium intake may help reduce anxiety by supporting proper nervous system function.
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Duloxetine
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Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is an SNRI medication used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by balancing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, improving mood and reducing anxiety.
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Fluoxetine
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Fluoxetine (Prozac) is an SSRI used to treat anxiety, depression, and OCD. It helps balance serotonin levels, alleviating symptoms of anxiety and improving mood.
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Alprazolam
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Alprazolam (Xanax) is a benzodiazepine used for the short-term relief of anxiety. It works quickly by calming the central nervous system, providing immediate relief from anxiety symptoms.
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Citalopram (Celexa)
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Citalopram is an SSRI medication used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by increasing serotonin levels, helping to regulate mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.
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Lorazepam
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Lorazepam (Ativan) is a medication in the benzodiazepine class, primarily used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and sometimes sleep disorders. It works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the brain and central nervous system.
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Medical Marijuana
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Medical marijuana contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which have calming effects on the brain and body. It can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation in some individuals.
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Acupuncture
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Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It’s thought to help balance the body’s energy and alleviate anxiety.
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Amitriptyline
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Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, alleviating anxiety symptoms.
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
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EMDR is a form of psychotherapy that involves processing traumatic memories through bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements). It’s used to treat PTSD and anxiety disorders.
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Prayer
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Prayer is a spiritual practice used by some to manage anxiety. It offers comfort, a sense of purpose, and connection, helping individuals cope with stressful situations.
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Chamomile
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Chamomile is a calming herb known for its soothing effects on the nervous system. Drinking chamomile tea can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
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Savella / Milnacipran
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Savella is a medication used to treat fibromyalgia and generalized anxiety disorder. It works by balancing serotonin and norepinephrine, helping to reduce anxiety symptoms.
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Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)
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Pristiq is an SNRI medication used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by balancing serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, reducing anxiety and improving mood.
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Psychotherapy
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Psychotherapy is a treatment that involves talking with a mental health professional to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It can be effective for treating anxiety by helping individuals cope with stressors.
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Massage therapy
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Massage therapy can help reduce physical tension and promote relaxation, easing the physical symptoms of anxiety such as muscle tightness and increased heart rate.
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Aromatherapy
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Aromatherapy uses essential oils to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Scents like lavender and chamomile have calming properties that can help alleviate stress and anxiety.
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Escitalopram (Lexapro)
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Escitalopram is an SSRI used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by increasing serotonin levels, helping to alleviate anxiety symptoms and improve overall mood.
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Magnesium
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Magnesium is a mineral that helps regulate the nervous system. Supplementing with magnesium can alleviate symptoms of anxiety by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
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Kava
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Kava is a plant-based supplement known for its calming effects. It has been traditionally used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation without impairing cognitive function.
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Valerian
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Valerian root is a herbal remedy known for its sedative effects. It’s often used to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and calm nervous tension.
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Imipramine
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Imipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant used to treat anxiety and depression. It works by altering the balance of certain chemicals in the brain, improving mood and reducing anxiety symptoms.
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Passionflower
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Passionflower is a plant used to ease anxiety and insomnia. It works as a natural calming agent, helping to reduce symptoms of anxiety by promoting relaxation and improving sleep.
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Avoiding meat
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Some people find that reducing or eliminating meat from their diet can help lower anxiety. Meat, particularly red meat, may contribute to stress and increase anxiety symptoms for some individuals.
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Pantothenic acid
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Vitamin B5 supports adrenal function and may help reduce the physical effects of stress. It can aid in managing anxiety by supporting energy production and balancing stress hormones.
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Propranalol
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Propranolol is a beta-blocker that helps reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a racing heart and shaking. It's often used in situations that cause short-term anxiety, like public speaking.
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Interpersonal therapy
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IPT is a form of therapy that focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication skills to reduce anxiety and depression. It aims to resolve interpersonal issues that contribute to anxiety.
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Desipramine
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Desipramine is another tricyclic antidepressant used to treat anxiety and depression. It helps to balance brain chemicals that affect mood, alleviating anxiety symptoms.
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Venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
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Venlafaxine is an antidepressant medication used to treat generalized anxiety disorder. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, reducing anxiety symptoms.