Psychotherapy and medication are the most popular treatments for anxiety disorders. Combining both of these options can provide the greatest relief for many. There are many healthcare professionals who can treat anxiety. These include psychiatrists, psychologists, and general practitioners. A psychiatrist is able to diagnose and treat anxiety disorders.
How can psychiatrists treat anxiety disorder?
Psychiatrists can be described as doctors who are trained in the treatment of mental disorders. They can treat anxiety using a variety treatment options, including psychotherapy and medication. The patient’s specific needs will determine the best treatment. These are some of these treatments that psychiatrists recommend to relieve anxiety disorders symptoms.
Selective Serotonin Resuptake Inhibitors
SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitions (SSRIs), are often prescribed by Therapist near me to treat anxiety disorders. SSRIs increase brain levels of serotonin. The regulation of mood, sleep and appetite is aided by serotonin. Low levels of serotonin can cause depression, anxiety and suicidal behaviour. Although technically SSRIs can be considered antidepressants they are often used to treat anxiety or other disorders.
Serotonin Norepinephrine Resuptake Inhibitors
Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors are similar to SSRIs because they increase certain neurotransmitters including serotonin. They also increase serotonin levels. Serotonin improves mental balance and promotes feelings a well-being. Norepinephrine increases energy and alertness. SNRIs can be used to treat anxiety symptoms such as low energy, poor concentration or a lack of relief from SSRIs.
Tricyclic Antdepressants (TCAs)
Tricyclic antidepressants, also known as SNRIs (tricyclic antidepressants), can influence brain levels of serotonin or norepinephrine. TCAs, an antidepressant older than SSRIs, have proven to be very effective in managing anxiety and depression. TCAs can be even more effective for people suffering from severe anxiety or depression than SSRIs. TCAs have a higher risk of side effects, and a lower safety profile. Many people find that they provide relief from their distressing symptoms.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines, a class that treats anxiety symptoms by affecting the brain’s gamma aminobutyric acids (GABA) receptors, are a group of drugs. GABA is involved in stress response and has been shown to help control anxiety and fear. Anxiety disorders can be linked to changes in the GABA system. Benzodiazepines bind with the same receptors that GABA to slow down the central nervous systems and produce a calming effect. They are quick to work and can wear off quickly.
Psychotherapy
A psychiatrist is qualified to prescribe medication for anxiety. They can also provide psychosocial interventions and talk therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and exposure therapy are two common psychotherapies for anxiety treatment. CBT aims to address anxiety symptoms by identifying and addressing the causes. Exposure therapy is a way to make the patient feel safe and to allow them to experience the things that they are afraid of and to avoid the things they don’t want to. This helps to manage anxiety and weaken negative associations.
Some psychiatrists will focus only on anxiety treatment and refer patients to Psychologist near me for further therapies. Some prefer to work with patients and offer a variety of treatments. Patients can also choose to have their psychiatrist do both, or work with several practitioners. Both practitioners can work together, sharing information and notes, with the patient’s consent.
