Treatment For Panic and Anxiety Attacks

holistic treatment for anxiety for anxiety and panic attacks involves psychotherapy, medications and lifestyle modifications. Doctors can help patients manage their symptoms by determining what is the cause of the attack.

They may prescribe benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam, or beta-blockers such as propranolol (Inderal) which slows the speed of a heartbeat. Psychotherapy is a way to help you cope with anxiety by speaking to the therapy.

Psychotherapy

A psychologist or psychiatrist can diagnose anxiety and offer counseling (psychotherapy). Many people who experience frequent panic attacks visit their primary care doctor, who may check for a medical issue that may be underlying. The PCP may refer a patient to a mental health specialist based on the cause of the panic attack. The therapist can recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to reduce anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can help people identify the actions and thinking patterns that can trigger an episode of panic. They include catastrophizing or believing that the worst is about to happen. This type of thinking is thought to be linked to chemical imbalances in the amygdala, and brain circuitry that are involved in processing fear and anxiety. The therapist can teach the client to challenge these thoughts, which should reduce the chance of having an attack.

Another technique is to learn to manage the physical symptoms that accompany a panic attack, such as sweating and a heart that is pounding. The therapist can guide the patient in controlled breathing, which is known as mindfulness meditation, which promotes relaxation. In addition the therapist can guide the client how to create an effective sleep routine and strategies for reducing stress.

Some therapists also use exposure therapy to help a person overcome the avoiding behaviors that cause anxiety. Someone suffering from agoraphobia, for instance, could be encouraged to face their fears -- such as crowds or using public transportation -- one at a time one until they feel more comfortable.

Treatments such as anti-anxiety or anti-panic medications, such as benzodiazepines, can be useful in decreasing the intensity of panic attacks. They aren't effective in treating the root causes. In the long run, these drugs can cause dependence and addiction. This makes it difficult to break the cycle. Many therapists do not prescribe medications as a part of treatment of panic disorder.

Some providers offer sliding scale fees for those with lower incomes, or free services. If you have insurance you can contact your insurance provider to find out what coverage they provide. Some therapists offer online sessions that can be helpful for those who cannot afford to go in person.

Medications

In addition to therapy, doctors often recommend non medication treatment for anxiety as a treatment for panic attacks. Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications have proven effective in decreasing the frequency, intensity and duration of symptoms. These medications help to stabilize levels of chemical messengers, also known as neurotransmitters in your brain. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most frequently prescribed medications for panic attacks. They are a class of antidepressants which increase the amount of serotonin a natural brain chemical that influences mood, in the brain. The SSRIs include sertraline (Zoloft), Lexapro (escitalopram) and paroxetine(Paxil). Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, another type of antidepressant, can also decrease anxiety symptoms by increasing the amount of norepinephrine in your brain. These are a group of antidepressants, which includes the venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

Beta blockers are often prescribed to treat high pressure or heart problems. They also help reduce anxiety symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, sweating hands, trembling voices and shaking hands. Health care professionals don't typically prescribe them for panic disorder, however they may be recommended in the event that a stressful situation triggers a panic attack.

Benzodiazepines can be used to relieve anxiety symptoms quickly. They can be addictive and withdrawal symptoms can occur if you suddenly stop taking them. They could also be risky if you combine them with alcohol or other depressants. They may only be suggested for short-term usage by health professionals.

If you are suffering with frequent panic attacks, your physician will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your family history, lifestyle, and other mental health issues. They will determine if your attacks are caused by a medical issue, such as thyroid disease, and will also look for other factors that could contribute to the symptoms, including adverse childhood experiences or other stressors.

The most important thing to remember when treating anxiety without medication panic attacks is to recognize that they are not harmful. You should also learn how to deal with them. If you have loved ones who can help, they can use relaxation techniques and stay away from caffeine and other stimulants that can cause them.

Lifestyle changes

It is important to seek out professional help if you are experiencing extreme anxiety or panic attacks. Psychotherapy and medications are usually effective treatments for anxiety disorders.

Psychotherapy, also referred as talk therapy is a term that describes the various psychological treatment methods. A common type is cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches you to recognize and modify unhealthy thoughts and emotions that cause panic attacks. By altering your reactions and behaviors you can decrease or eliminate panic attacks.

Anti-anxiety medicines can also be helpful in reducing anxiety and anxiety. These medications, often referred to as tranquilizers, reduce the activity of the nervous system and provide the effect of sedation that makes you feel calmer. The most commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medicines include the benzodiazepines like alprazolam (Xanax(r)) and lorazepam (Ativan(r)).

A healthy lifestyle can also help in reducing anxiety symptoms. Regular exercise can ease stress, release happy hormones and improve your mood. Avoiding alcohol, caffeine smoking, and alcohol can aggravate anxiety symptoms. A healthy lifestyle requires adequate sleep. At least eight hours of sleep every night can alleviate anxiety symptoms and enhance cognition.

Spending time with family and friends and engaging in social activities can reduce anxiety. Joining a community of people who have similar issues can help you to find out that your concerns aren't unique.

A variety of alternative and complementary medicine (CAM) practices like yoga meditation and acupuncture demonstrate promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms. Further clinical trials are required to confirm these results. In the meantime, you can try to moderately exercise throughout the week and consume an wholesome diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean proteins. Avoid foods containing alcohol, sugar, or caffeine, since they can increase anxiety. Also, avoid taking herbal supplements unless you have discussed them with your healthcare provider first.

Counseling

A panic attack can trigger many symptoms. They include a racing heart chest tightness, hyperventilation, and shaking. They might also believe they are suffering from an attack on their heart, or that they are dying. The attacks are usually intense for a short period of time, and then disappear. People who experience them frequently may be diagnosed with panic disorder.

Your doctor will ask you to provide your medical history in detail, and perform a physical examination in order to determine if panic attacks are present. You will be asked to describe your symptoms as well as the frequency they occur. They will also search for symptoms of other health conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as a thyroid problem or heart disease.

Talk therapy or psychotherapy with a mental health professional is the most effective method of treatment of anxiety and panic attacks. It is recommended to seek the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can assist you in identifying triggers and show you how to deal with. They may prescribe antidepressants to ease symptoms and prevent recurrence.

Medications such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) or SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), can decrease the frequency of your panic and anxiety attacks, but they won't make them completely go away. If your medication doesn't work, your doctor may change the dosage or switch to a different type.

A therapist or counselor could assist you in managing your emotions. You may also opt for cognitive behavioral therapy in order to address unhelpful beliefs and thoughts. This can be a difficult process, but you'll be able to use the tools to manage your anxiety. Friends and family members can also be a source of support as you learn to deal with your symptoms. Many health professionals recommend that spouses and partners participate in the best treatment for anxiety and depression process to provide physical and emotional support. They can learn relaxation techniques together and act as a calming presence when your panic or anxiety attacks flare up.