Treating Anxiety

There are a number of different techniques available to treat anxiety. Talk with your provider about what approach is best for you. The two main types of treatment for anxiety are talking treatments, known as psychotherapy, and medication.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one effective and commonly used type of psychotherapy. Rather than focusing on what has happened in the past, CBT is a short-term and goal-oriented type of therapy that focuses on how you think, feel and behave. It is a practical approach to problem-solving. In addition, because of the physiological component of anxiety, medications may also be used as part of treatment.  Until recently, benzodiazepines or minor tranquilizers were the main types of medications used to treat anxiety. However benzodiazepines are prescribed less often now because they may lose effectiveness over time and problematic dependency may occur. Certain anti-depressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are helpful in the treatment of anxiety disorders and evidence shows they are very effective for certain types of anxiety. They can be taken by most people with very few side effects. There are several other medications that have been shown to be effective in the treatment of anxiety, including azapirones and beta-blockers. Some medications may take several weeks before a change in symptoms can be noticed. If you take medication for anxiety, it is important to take them as prescribed, and communicate with your physician before making any changes.