By Connie Limon
Most often anxiety disorders are treated with:
• Medication
• Specific types of psychotherapy
• A combination of medication and psychotherapy
Type of treatment depends on the problem and the person's preference.
What is the first step toward treatment?
• A careful diagnostic evaluation to determine if the symptoms are caused by an anxiety disorder or a physical problem
What happens if an anxiety disorder is diagnosed?
• The type of disorder or the combination of disorders present must be identified
• Any coexisting conditions such as depression or substance abuse must be identified
What happens if a coexisting condition is identified?
• If alcoholism, depression or other coexisting condition is identified, these conditions are often addressed first and attempts to bring them under control precede treatment for the anxiety disorder or disorders identified.
If you are a person who has already received treatment for an anxiety disorder, you should tell your current doctor about the treatment in detail. Tell your doctor:
• Names of medication you have used
• Dosage of medication used at the beginning of treatment
• Was the dosage increased or decreased while under treatment?
• Did any side effects occur?
• Did the treatment help you become less anxious
• If you received psychotherapy, describe the type of therapy, how often you attended sessions and whether or not the therapy was useful
It is not uncommon for people to feel as though they have failed at treatment or that the treatment did not work for them. The facts, however, may be that treatment was not given for an adequate length of time or was administered incorrectly. It is also common for people to try several different treatments or combinations of treatment before finding one that works for them.
What is the role of medication?
• It is important to realize that medication does not cure anxiety disorders
• Medication can keep them under control while receiving psychotherapy
• Medication must be prescribed by physicians and usually psychiatrists
What is the role of psychotherapy?
• Psychotherapy is often offered by the psychiatrists prescribing the medicine
• Psychotherapy is also offered by a team of psychologists, social workers, or counselors who specifically provide the service with or without the psychiatrist who prescribed medicine
What types of medicines are used for anxiety disorders?
• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety drugs
• Beta-blockers
What is the prognosis for people with anxiety disorders?
• With proper treatment, many people can lead normal, fulfilling lives
Source: National Institute of Mental Health
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All health concerns should be addressed by a qualified health care professional
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