Talk to your doctor before taking kava, and do not take it for more than a few days. In rare cases, severe liver damage has been reported. Is sometimes suggested for mild-to-moderate anxiety, but the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning concerning kava's effect on the liver. Passionflower may interact with other drugs that have a sedative effect, such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates, narcotics, antidepressants, and antihistamines. However, more studies are needed to know for sure whether passionflower is effective. In a few studies, passionflower relieved anxiety as well as some of the benzodiazepines. John's wort can affect other drugs you may be taking, including antidepressants, birth control, or other medications. People with liver problems should not take valerian. DO NOT take valerian if you are pregnant or nursing. Valerian may interact with other drugs that have a sedative effect, such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates, narcotics, antidepressants, and antihistamines. Some studies show that valerian helps reduce anxiety, but one study found that valerian was no better at reducing social anxiety than a placebo. Is an herbal treatment for insomnia that is sometimes used to treat anxiety as well, although evidence is mixed. Some of the herbs used to treat anxiety can interact with anxiety medications. If you already take medication for anxiety, ask your doctor before taking any herbs. For these reasons, take herbs only under the supervision of a health care provider. Herbs, however, can trigger side effects and interact with other herbs, supplements, or medications. The use of herbs is a time-honored approach to strengthening the body and treating disease.
Keep your blood sugar steady by eating frequent small meals that contain protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Eat more fresh vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. Avoid caffeine because it can make you feel restless. NutritionĪlthough there is no diet to relieve anxiety, eating healthy meals keeps your body well nourished and strong. Several studies suggest that exercise helps reduce depression, and at least one 2007 study found that regular, intense exercise, such as running or playing football, can also have a positive effect on anxiety. Music therapy, visual imagery, and aromatherapy may also help reduce feelings of anxiety. Progressive muscle relaxation, diaphragmatic breathing, biofeedback, meditation, and self hypnosis can help you relax and reduce your anxiety. Mind-body techniques, nutrition, exercise, and herbs may help reduce anxiety. SSRIs sometimes used to treat anxiety include Sertraline, Fluoxetine, Fluvoxamine, Citalopram, and Paroxetine. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).Ī review of studies examining the tolerability and effectiveness of medication for anxiety found that SSRIs showed clear benefit, with a response rate almost double that of placebo treatment.Antidepressants sometimes used to treat anxiety include Duloxetine (Cymbalta), Escitalopram (Lexapro), Fluoxetine (Prozac), Paroxetine (Paxil), and Venlafaxine (Effexor). Side effects can include insomnia, nervousness, light headedness, upset stomach, nausea, diarrhea, and headaches.Ī group of drugs that act on the same brain chemicals believed to be involved in anxiety. However, you must take it for 2 weeks before feeling any effect. Benzodiazepines include Alprazolam (Xanax), Chlordiazepoxide (Librium), Clonazepam (Klonopin), Diazepam (Valium), and Lorazepam (Ativan).Īn anti-anxiety drug that does not seem to cause drowsiness or dependence. DO NOT take these drugs if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, a psychosis, or you are pregnant. They may cause drowsiness, constipation, or nausea. They work quickly, but they can be habit forming and are usually prescribed for short-term use. Sometimes, your doctor may prescribe medicines to help you until you have learned these techniques.Ī group of drugs that help reduce anxiety and have sedating effects.
Your doctor may also suggest trying relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing. In cognitive behavioral therapy, you learn to modify or replace anxious thoughts with healthy ones. If your anxiety has no physical cause, your doctor may recommend counseling to help you learn coping strategies and problem-solving techniques.Ī 2007 review of studies found that when used, cognitive behavioral therapy helped treat GAD. If you have an underlying physical condition, your doctor will treat it. Treatment for anxiety depends on the cause.