Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it begins to interfere with your daily life and overall health, it can become extremely problematic. Anxiety is often accompanied by an ever-present feeling of dread or worry. It can also cause unpleasant symptoms like shortness of breath, a racing heart, sweating, or shaking.
Even though anxiety is a serious mental health condition, it doesn’t have to take over your life. For many people, medication is an important tool in managing anxiety symptoms. At Alvarado Parkway Institute, our treatment plans often include medication alongside therapy, lifestyle changes, and other forms of support. Below, we share a brief overview of some of the most common anxiety medications and their side effects.
Common Types of Anxiety Medications
When it comes to anxiety medication, there are several types, each working in its own way:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
These are often the first choice for treating anxiety. SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and escitalopram (Lexapro) increase serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Similar to SSRIs, SNRIs such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) work by increasing both serotonin and norepinephrine. They are often used for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and can also help with nerve pain.
Benzodiazepines
Medications like lorazepam (Ativan) and diazepam (Valium) are fast-acting and effective for acute anxiety. However, they are typically used short-term due to the risk of dependence.
Buspirone
A non-sedative option for anxiety, buspirone works by influencing serotonin receptors. It’s often used for chronic anxiety and can be a good choice for those who need long-term treatment without sedation.
Beta blockers
While not specifically an anxiety medication, beta blockers like propranolol can help manage physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a rapid heartbeat or trembling.
Addressing Common Misconceptions About Anxiety Medication
It’s normal to have concerns about any new medication you start. In addition to the possible side effects, the misconceptions surrounding prescription medications can cause unnecessary hesitancy and prevent people from experiencing the relief they deserve. Here are a few common myths about anxiety medication:
“Medication is a last resort.”
Anxiety medication doesn’t have to be something you try after you’ve experimented with other approaches. It can be part of your treatment plan from the start, especially if your symptoms are severe or significantly impact your daily life. For some, medication can provide immediate relief, creating a stable foundation for other treatments like therapy or lifestyle changes. Choosing to use medication is not a sign of failure—it’s a proactive step that can help you feel much better right away.
“It changes your personality.”
Anxiety medication is meant to reduce symptoms, not change who you are. It can help you feel calmer, more focused, or less overwhelmed, but it won’t turn you into someone else. If you ever feel numb, disconnected, or unlike yourself while taking medication, that’s a sign to talk to your care team. At Alvarado Parkway Institute, our staff can adjust your dosage, switch medications, or recommend other options until you feel like the best version of yourself.
“You’ll be on it forever.”
Many people use anxiety medication temporarily, while others find long-term benefits. Regular evaluations ensure your treatment is right for you.
Many people use anxiety medication temporarily, while others take it long-term. The right approach depends on your specific situation, and your healthcare provider will regularly evaluate your treatment to ensure it remains effective. If your symptoms improve significantly, you may eventually choose to reduce or stop your medication. Remember, medication is a tool, not a life sentence.
“Therapy is enough.”
Therapy is a powerful approach to managing anxiety, but it isn’t always enough on its own. For some, therapy is most effective when it’s combined with medication. Medication can help stabilize your mood, making it easier to engage in your sessions and apply coping skills in your daily life. Anxiety treatment looks different for everyone, and there’s no shame in using multiple methods to achieve relief.
Potential Side Effects to Be Aware Of
Although anxiety medication can be life-changing for some, it can also have negative side effects. Common ones include nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, changes in appetite, or sleep issues. It’s important to communicate with a mental health professional, especially before starting or changing a medication, to ensure it’s safe.
At Alvarado Parkway Institute, our medical team carefully monitors your response to medication in a well-equipped, supportive environment. Any side effects you may experience can be managed quickly.
Finding the Right Anxiety Medication for You
Not all anxiety medications are meant for everyone. The best option for you will depend on your symptoms, medical history, and how your body responds to different medications. Alvarado Parkway Institute provides thorough evaluations and regular check-ins to help you find the right fit when you experiment under medical supervision.
How Alvarado Parkway Institute Treats Anxiety
When you visit Alvarado Parkway Institute, we guarantee that your anxiety treatment plan will be tailored to your needs. We offer a range of treatment options, including:
- Medication management
- Individual therapy
- Coping skills education
- Group therapy for peer support
- Mindfulness and stress management
We believe that true relief comes from addressing anxiety from multiple angles.
When to Consider Medication
Medication isn’t for everyone, but it may be an option if your anxiety significantly interferes with your daily life, makes it hard to complete tasks, or disrupts your sleep. Choosing to take medication does not mean you’ve “given in”; it means you’re giving yourself the tools you need to function better than you have been.
Anxiety Treatment in San Diego
If anxiety has been hanging over you like a dark cloud day and night, allow Alvarado Parkway Institute to help. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs in San Diego.
