Long-Term Treatment for Anxiety

Anxiety is an issue that many people deal with at some time during their lives. When it becomes more severe and long lasting, we may need professional help and a long term strategy to address it.

Self Care

• Low levels of anxiety can be caused by stress or other normal life events. In these situations, a consistent form of self care may be sufficient and could include planning more free time into the daily schedule, getting a massage or engaging in a recreational activity.

Professional Help

• If anxiety reaches a point to warrant professional help one can seek out the guidance of a trained counselor, psychologist or psychiatrist who can offer approaches such as psychotherapy and drug treatment.

Psychotherapy

• Psychotherapy can be a long-term treatment option for anxiety and can help identify the causes associated with anxiety as well as teaching behavioral techniques to manage anxiety.

Medication

• For more severe anxiety there are several medications that can be used to manage symptoms over time. These include tranquilizers such as Valium and Xanax as well as certain anti-depressants including Zoloft and Prozac.

Alternative Care

• There are also many alternative approaches to dealing with anxiety including acupuncture, meditation and physical activities such as yoga and exercise.