Most of us occasionally look at the glass as half empty but for those with generalized anxiety disorder it is something more. These individuals constantly feel worried or upset and find it difficult if not impossible to rein in these thoughts for extended periods of time. The severity, frequency, and duration of the worries is out of proportion to the situation.
Jill has generalized anxiety disorder and has been planning a picnic for the family for over 6 months. This coming Sunday is the big day. Let's look at how she may view this event.
To some Jill seemed well adjusted but to others she seems like a bit of a worry wart. She has been worried for 6 months now that her summer picnic plans won't come off as she hoped due to bad weather. The day before there isn't a cloud in the sky and the weather forecast is for clear skies with no chance of rain on Sunday. Nevertheless, she can hardly sleep due to the thought that rain could ruin her picnic. Jill packs six umbrellas just in case. Her husband notices the umbrellas but he has learned not to rock the boat and maybe they are some type of super secret mosquito repellent umbrellas anyway. Jill is a nervous wreck by the time of the event, so much so that she is too exhausted to enjoy the company of her family; after all she has been a nervous wreck for 6 months now. The good news is it didn't rain but Jill wonders about the possibility of a thunderstorm on the way home. END
While the above example may seem a little bit extreme for some with generalized anxiety disorder it is a normal occurrence. The question for those individuals is how to best treat the condition.
Most experts agree that the best approach to treating GAD is a combination of counseling (cognitive behavioral counseling) and/or drug therapy.
Anxiety drugs such as benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed. While they are effective in treating the condition they can lead to drug dependence and if discontinued, it must be done slowly rather than stopped abruptly.
Another anxiety drug often prescribed is Buspirone. The good news is that this medication does not lead to dependence the bad news is it takes at least 2 weeks to start working.
There are many non prescription general anxiety disorder treatments which can prove beneficial for some. This list would include behavioral therapies, relaxation therapies, yoga, meditation, exercise, and biofeedback. While we would like to explore these options with you it would be impossible in such a short article format. We would like to encourage you to do a little extra research on your own in these potentially helpful areas.
Additionally, many of those searching an alternative natural solution have found herbal remedies for GAD to be an excellent alternative to harsh prescription drugs. Natural herbal remedies for anxiety are very safe and have shown to be effective both as a stand alone treatment and a complimentary addition to other non prescription alternatives. If you have been searching for a natural treatment for anxiety this is an option worth considering.