Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a medical condition that affects many people. There are generalized anxiety disorder treatment options that can relieve the symptoms and allow people with GAD to lead healthy lives. Treatment plans can include therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes. Many people with GAD choose a combination of treatments.
Psychotherapy may be the right generalized anxiety disorder treatment plan for you. It involves talking one on one with a counselor who is trained in GAD. You may discuss life changes to help manage your stress and keep your anxiety low. Your counselor may also teach you relaxation tips for when you feel an anxiety attack coming on.
Psychotherapy can also include cognitive behavior therapy. This kind of therapy involves changing your daily behavior and thoughts from negative to positive. Cognitive behavior therapy focuses on how to deal with the stresses in your life instead of trying to change them. It is a short-term therapy that may be able to help with GAD.
Medication is sometimes used as a generalized anxiety disorder treatment. It can be combined with therapy to get the best results. Most GAD medications have to be prescribed by a doctor and can include anti-depressants and anti-anxiety options.
Anti-depressants can affect the neurotransmitters in the brain and help you with a more positive outlook, which may reduce anxiety. There are two different kinds of anti-anxiety medications. Some medications help to control long-term anxiety and are taken daily. Other medications are to help with anxiety attacks and are taken only when an attack is happening. Any of these medications may cause other side effects, and you should be monitored closely by your doctor while taking them.
Another generalized anxiety disorder treatment is to find a support group that you can attend on a weekly basis. Many people find that being around other people with the same disorder helps them to know they are not alone. A GAD support group will allow you to talk about your difficulties and listen to other people that may have the same problems.
Stress is a huge factor for people that suffer from GAD. You may find that the best generalized anxiety disorder treatment is to make healthier lifestyle choices. A nutritious diet and regular exercise can improve your life and lessen some of your stress. It is also important to work on the relationships in your life with your family and friends. These life changes may help to balance and control your daily stress.