What Are the Treatments for Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Excessive worry, physical tension, and an expectation of negative outcomes characterize generalized anxiety disorder, which 6.8 million people in the United States experience, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Ongoing worry and exaggerated concern can cause discomfort in mild cases, and can be debilitating in the extreme. Most effective are treatments that combine medication with psychotherapy, NIMH says. Additionally, self-help techniques diminish the symptoms of anxiety and restore a more productive, fulfilling life.

Medication

• Benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Ativan and Valium produce a calming effect quickly, usually in less than 90 minutes. They are prescribed for short-term use only, as they are addictive and cause side effects, including drowsiness. More often, according to Mayo Clinic, buspirone is prescribed to treat anxiety. It is not habit forming, but the effects are not felt for several weeks. Antidepressants such as Cymbalta, Paxil and Lexapro also are prescribed sometimes prescribed, either alone or in combination with anti-anxiety drugs.

Psychotherapy

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been proven effective in treating anxiety disorders, according to NIMH. It is a short-term therapy, usually 12 weeks, that allows an individual to identify specific thought patterns that trigger anxiety symptoms. By evaluating the validity of these thoughts and replacing them with more accurate statements, people are able to disrupt development of fear symptoms and build more productive coping and problem-solving behaviors.

Computer-Aided CBT

• Dr. Isaac M. Marks, M.D., and colleagues at the Imperial College School of Medicine in London demonstrated the efficacy of computer-aided CBT. This technology, which was being used in a mental health clinic and is also available on the internet, allows individuals to identify, evaluate and modify erroneous thinking without the aid of a therapist. The study found that computer-aided CBT produced clinically significant results in a test population.

Coping Skills

• People who suffer from generalized anxiety disorder often do not possess adequate skills for managing fears and self-soothing. The HelpGuide.org website offers suggestions for developing these capabilities, including deep breathing, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation. These techniques counteract the physical symptoms of anxiety and calm the mind. Finally, good nutrition and sufficient sleep are necessary to strengthen one's coping ability, according to Dr. Michael Benjamin, a clinical psychiatrist and author of the website MyRay.com.

When to Seek Help

• To varying degrees, everyone experiences periods of increased worry in response to change and uncertainty. However, if the symptoms are interfering with your ability to be productive, resolve problems, and enjoy life, you may benefit from seeking advice from a qualified health care professional. A diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder includes ruling out any underlying or co-existing conditions so the best possible treatment can be provided.