Ssris and snris : these two classes were initially prescribed as antidepressants but, more recently, research has found that they might help with anxiety as well. They were named based on how they work in the brain: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (ssris) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (snris). To understand these, some terms need to be defined. First, a neurotransmitter is like a messenger or a runner in a relay race; when an impulse affects a nerve fiber, that fiber then releases a substance (i.
E. , the neurotransmitter) that will transfer the message to the next stop along the path, which ultimately leads to a muscle, gland, or other target cells.
You may be offered medication to help manage your anxiety. Some common medications for anxiety are: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (ssris) – ssri’s are antidepressants used to help treat anxiety. Sertraline is the most common ssri suggested for anxiety, but there are other ssris available benzodiazepines – doctors should only prescribe benzodiazepines if your anxiety is extreme or if you are in crisis. This is because they are addictive and become less effective if used long-term beta-blockers – these can help with the physical signs of anxiety. They can help to lower a fast heartbeat, shaking or blushing
Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
you may start by seeing your primary care provider to find out if your anxiety could be related to your physical health. He or she can check for signs of an underlying medical condition that may need treatment. However, you may need to see a mental health specialist if you have severe anxiety.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions. A psychologist and certain other mental health professionals can diagnose anxiety and provide counseling (psychotherapy). To help diagnose an anxiety disorder, your mental health provider may:
give you a psychological evaluation. This involves discussing your thoughts, feelings and behavior to help pinpoint a diagnosis and check for related complications.
Anxiety can feel overwhelming. Untreated, it may grow more severe and can lead to isolation, depression, and thoughts of suicide. If you feel negatively impacted by anxiety, you can find a therapist to work with. If you feel like you need help for anxiety that could cause you to harm yourself, you can talk to someone who can help by calling the national suicide prevention lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 (tty: 1-800-799-4tty). References: diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: dsm-5. (5th ed. ). (2013). Washington, d. C. : american psychiatric association. Lawson, k. & towey, s. (n. D. ). What types of psychotherapy are helpful for anxiety and depression? university of minnesota.