{"formatVersion":"1.1","id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/anxiolytics","path":"/library/anxiolytics","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/anxiolytics","title":"Anti-Anxiety Medication","family":"Library detail","description":"Anti-anxiety medication is a term that covers the various types of drugs (including benzodiazepines, SSRIs, and others) that can be used in the treatment of anxiety disorders.","language":"en-US","access":{"audience":"custom-shared-preview","indexable":true},"provenance":{"sourceUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/anxiolytics","wordpressId":"422","contentCompleteness":"complete","dateScope":"original-source"},"authors":[{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/naomi-carr#person","name":"Naomi Carr","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/naomi-carr"}],"reviewer":{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/morgan-blair#person","name":"Morgan Blair","url":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/people/morgan-blair"},"dates":{"datePublished":"2023-03-30T12:12:08Z","dateModified":"2025-09-04T12:47:59Z","lastReviewed":"2023-03-30"},"content":{"html":"

Anti-Anxiety Medication

Written by \"\"Naomi CarrMedically reviewed by \"\"Morgan Blair

Published on · Updated on

Anti-anxiety medication, also known as anxiolytics, are a class of medications typically used to treat a variety of anxiety disorders. There are many types of anxiolytics that may have differing effects depending on the type and severity of the condition, the individual’s response to the medication, and the concurrent use of other medications or therapeutic treatments.

\"One

Key takeaways

  • Anti-anxiety medications include several drug classes whose benefits and side effects vary by condition and individual response.
  • Benzodiazepines act quickly but carry dependence and withdrawal risks that limit their long-term use.
  • Medication may be combined with talking therapies and self-care, with monitoring for adverse effects and interactions.

What is anti-anxiety medication?

\nAnti-anxiety medications are often used to treat mental health disorders in which symptoms of anxiety occur, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder [1].\nSymptoms of anxiety disorders may include [2]:\n

    \n
  • Rapid heart rate
    • \n
  • Sweating
    • \n
  • Shaking
    • \n
  • Stomachache
    • \n
  • Feeling unable to stop worrying
    • \n
  • Trouble concentrating
    • \n
  • Sleep disturbances
    • \n
  • Intense or excessive fear of specific stimuli
    • \n
  • Avoidance of situations that induce anxiety
    • \n

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are no longer listed as anxiety disorders in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) [3][4] but share several symptoms with anxiety disorders and are thus able to be treated with similar medications [5][6].\n

There are several different types of anti-anxiety medication, each of which works in a slightly different way in the brain. Many medications used to treat anxiety disorders are also used to treat other mental health conditions, as they can impact a variety of symptoms, along with producing varying side effects [1].

\nMedications often work differently for different people, so what is effective for one person may not be effective for another. As such, many people need to try more than one medication, or a combination of medications, to find the most effective treatment [5].\n

Types of anti-anxiety medication

\nThere are various types of medication used as anti-anxiety treatments, all of which work by impacting the action and transmission of various neurotransmitters in the brain. Each type of medication has a slightly different action, so impact varying symptoms and produce different side effects [1].\n

SSRIs

\nSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are an antidepressant medication that has also been found to be effective in treating symptoms of anxiety. They are generally considered to be a safe medication, as they produce few side effects and have a low risk of drug interaction [7][8].\n

SSRIs work by reducing the reuptake of serotonin, thereby increasing the concentration of serotonin in the brain. Research indicates that low serotonin levels negatively impact mood, anxiety, and sleep, so an increase of serotonin can help to improve these symptoms [9].

Also, many people with an anxiety disorder also experience symptoms of depression, so SSRIs are a useful treatment for those who experience symptoms of both conditions [1].

\nCommonly prescribed SSRIs include [5]:\n

SNRIs

\nSerotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are also a type of antidepressant medication that are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, and generally considered to be effective and produce few side effects [8].\n

Similar to SSRIs, SNRIs impact serotonin levels, but also have a similar action on norepinephrine, increasing the concentration of this neurotransmitter in the brain [10].

Research shows that norepinephrine regulates stress and arousal responses, indicating that low levels can increase symptoms of anxiety [11]. As such, the combination of effects on serotonin and norepinephrine allows for effective treatment of anxiety disorders.

\nCommonly prescribed SNRIs include [8]:\n

\nBenzodiazepines are often prescribed to treat symptoms of anxiety disorders, as they are fast-acting and effective. However, they also are commonly abused and can lead to addiction and dependence, as well as producing potentially serious side effects. As such, benzodiazepines are recommended only for short-term use [1][8].\n

Benzodiazepines work by increasing the action of the neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which inhibits activity in the central nervous system [12]. By enhancing GABAergic activity, benzodiazepines can very quickly reduce symptoms of anxiety, hence their popularity [5].

\nCommonly prescribed benzodiazepines include [8]:\n

TCAs

\nTricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) increase the concentration of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, like several other antidepressant medications, so can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety. However, they are also known to cause several intolerable side effects, as well as a high risk of overdose with low doses, so are not commonly prescribed [1].\nClomipramine is a TCA that is often prescribed to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) [5].\n

Antihistamines

\nAntihistamines are typically prescribed to treat allergies but can also reduce symptoms of anxiety. As a neurotransmitter, histamine is believed to regulate levels of norepinephrine and serotonin, thus improving mood and reducing anxiety. Antihistamines can also have a sedating effect, which can help to reduce sleep disturbances common with anxiety disorders [5][8].\nHydroxyzine is an antihistamine medication that is prescribed as an anti-anxiety medication [8].\n

Azapirones

\nAzapirones are a class of medication that can be used to treat depression and anxiety. They work by increasing levels of serotonin, thus improving mood and symptoms of anxiety [1][8].\nBuspirone is an azapirone that is prescribed as an anti-anxiety medication [8].\n

Side effects of anti-anxiety medication

\nWhen starting a new medication, it is common to experience side effects, but they will usually reduce as your body adjusts to the new medication. If any side effects persist or become problematic, it is important to contact your doctor, as you may need a reduced dose or a change of medication [1].\n

SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs

\nCommon side effects of most antidepressant medications used to treat anxiety include [5][7]:\n

    \n
  • Stomach upset, including constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting
    • \n
  • Headache
    • \n
  • Sleep disturbances
    • \n
  • Drowsiness
    • \n
  • Dry mouth
    • \n
  • Change in appetite and weight
    • \n
  • Sexual dysfunction, such as reduced libido and erectile dysfunction
    • \n

Suicidal thoughts

\nIt is common for antidepressant medications to cause suicidal thoughts, particularly at the start of treatment. This risk has been found to be higher in people under the age of 25 [7].\nIf you or your family members notice any concerning changes in your mental state, or you have any thoughts of harming yourself, contact your doctor or mental health professional immediately.\n

Benzodiazepines

\nCommon side effects of benzodiazepines include [5]:\n

    \n
  • Drowsiness and sedation
    • \n
  • Dizziness
    • \n
  • Potential for abuse and dependence (recommended only for short-term use)
    • \n

Withdrawal symptoms

\nBenzodiazepines can cause withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped. This risk is increased with higher doses, prolonged treatment, and abruptly stopping treatment [1][13].\nWithdrawal symptoms can worsen symptoms of anxiety disorders and may include [13]:\n

    \n
  • Agitation
    • \n
  • Panic attacks
    • \n
  • Sleep disturbances
    • \n
  • Muscle aches and stiffness
    • \n
  • Irritability
    • \n

\nYour doctor will likely gradually reduce your prescription to prevent withdrawal symptoms from occurring [1].\n

Other side effects

\nOther side effects of anti-anxiety medications can include [5][6]:\n

    \n
  • Sedation
    • \n
  • Dizziness
    • \n
  • Nausea
    • \n
  • Headache
    • \n
  • Dry mouth
    • \n
  • Constipation
    • \n

\nIt is important that during your treatment you attend all arranged appointments with your doctor and to tell them about any side effects that you experience, so that they can monitor your physical and mental health and prevent or treat any serious effects that occur.\n

What disorders does anti-anxiety medication treat?

\nSome anti-anxiety medications are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for only one specific use, while others may be prescribed for several uses. Medications can also be prescribed for uses that are not approved by the FDA but have been deemed necessary for treatment by a medical professional, known as off-label use.\nSome of the conditions that can be treated by the various types of anti-anxiety medications include [1][5][8][14][15]:\n

Alternative treatments for anxiety disorders

\nOften the most effective treatment for anxiety disorders is a combination of medication and talking therapy. Your doctor can discuss with you the available treatment options for your condition [1].\n

Medications

\nPeople respond differently to different medications, so to treat anxiety or other disorders in which similar symptoms occur, you may need to try several medications or a combination of medications before you find the most effective treatment.\nThere are many medications that were designed to treat other mental and physical health conditions but have since been found to be useful in managing symptoms of anxiety as well. Your doctor may prescribe you one of these medications off-label to help you manage your condition. This may include [1][5][8]:\n

Therapies

Talking therapies can help to reduce emotional distress that can occur with certain mental health conditions, and it is recommended to engage in therapy alongside medication, for the most effective treatment. Various types of therapy are available, such as [1][2]:\n

    \n
  • Talk therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of talk therapy that can be an effective treatment for anxiety disorders, by providing a better understanding of your condition, increasing tolerance to emotional distress, and teaching how to alter negative thoughts and behaviors.
    • \n
  • Family therapy: Family therapy can help you and your family better understand your condition and discuss any challenges that may be experienced, while providing your family members with support and education about how to help you manage your symptoms.
    • \n
  • Exposure therapy: Some anxiety disorders may benefit from exposure therapy, particularly phobias. Exposure therapy works by gradually increasing exposure to the feared stimulus, eventually resulting in desensitization and a reduction in symptoms of anxiety.
    • \n

Self-help

\nLooking after your general well-being can help you to manage the symptoms of your condition, by improving and maintaining your physical and mental wellbeing with self-help techniques, such as [1][16]:\n

    \n
  • Healthy eating
    • \n
  • Relaxation activities, such as meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga
    • \n
  • Forming and maintaining a regular sleep pattern
    • \n
  • Engaging in regular exercise
    • \n
  • Avoiding drugs and alcohol
    • \n
  • Attending all appointments with your doctor and mental health professionals
    • \n
  • Ensuring you follow advice and treatment plans
    • \n

References

    \n
  1. 1. Bandelow, B., Michaelis, S., & Wedekind, D. (2017). Treatment of Anxiety Disorders. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 19(2), 93–107. Retrieved from Treatment of Anxiety Disorders
    2. \n
  2. National Institute of Mental Health. (Reviewed 2022). Anxiety Disorders. NIH. Retrieved from National Institute of Mental Health
    3. \n
  3. American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., Text Revision). Washington, DC: APA
    4. \n
  4. American Psychiatric Association. (2013, text revision 2022). Anxiety Disorders. In The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.). APA. Retrieved from PsychiatryOnline
    5. \n
  5. Cassano, G.B., Baldini Rossi, N., & Pini, S. (2002). Psychopharmacology of Anxiety Disorders. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 4(3), 271–285. Retrieved from Psychopharmacology of Anxiety Disorders
    6. \n
  6. Melaragno, A.J. (2021). Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety Disorders: From First-Line Options to Treatment Resistance. Focus, 19(2), 145-160. Retrieved from Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety Disorders
    7. \n
  7. National Health Service. (Reviewed 2021). Side Effects - Antidepressants. NHS. Retrieved from NHS
    8. \n
  8. Garakani, A., Murrough, J.W., Freire, R.C., Thom, R.P., Larkin, K., Buono, F.D., & Iosifescu, D.V. (2020). Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders: Current and Emerging Treatment Options. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 11, 595584. Retrieved from Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders
    9. \n
  9. Albert, P.R., Vahid-Ansari, F., & Luckhart, C. (2014). Serotonin-Prefrontal Cortical Circuitry in Anxiety and Depression Phenotypes: Pivotal Role of Pre- and Post-Synaptic 5-HT1A Receptor Expression. Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, 8, 199. Retrieved from Serotonin-Prefrontal Cortical Circuitry in Anxiety and Depression Phenotypes
    10. \n
  10. Lambert, O., & Bourin, M. (2002). SNRIs: Mechanism of Action and Clinical Features. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 2(6), 849–858. Retrieved from SNRIs
    11. \n
  11. Goddard, A.W., Ball, S.G., Martinez, J., Robinson, M.J., Yang, C.R., Russell, J.M., & Shekhar, A. (2010). Current Perspectives of the Roles of the Central Norepinephrine System in Anxiety and Depression. Depression and Anxiety, 27(4), 339–350. Retrieved from Current Perspectives of the Roles of the Central Norepinephrine System in Anxiety and…
    12. \n
  12. Lydiard, R.B. (2003). The Role of GABA in Anxiety Disorders. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 64 Suppl 3, 21–27. Retrieved from PubMed
    13. \n
  13. Pétursson, H. (1994). The Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome. Addiction (Abingdon, England), 89(11), 1455–1459. Retrieved from The Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome
    14. \n
  14. Chu, A., & Wadhwa, R. (2022). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from National Library of Medicine
    15. \n
  15. Wong, J., Motulsky, A., Abrahamowicz, M., Eguale, T., Buckeridge, D.L., & Tamblyn, R. (2017). Off-Label Indications for Antidepressants in Primary Care: Descriptive Study of Prescriptions from an Indication Based Electronic Prescribing System. BMJ (Clinical Research ed.), 356, j603. Retrieved from Off-Label Indications for Antidepressants in Primary Care
    16. \n
  16. National Health Service. (Reviewed 2022). Self-help - Generalised Anxiety Disorder in Adults. NHS. Retrieved from NHS
    17. \n

Medical Content

The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.

About MentalHealth.com

MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.

\"\"

Author

Naomi Carr

Writer

Naomi Carr is a writer with a background in English Literature from Oxford Brookes University.

Published
Updated
\"\"

Medical Reviewer

Morgan Blair

MA, LPCC

Morgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University.

Reviewed

Subject matter expert

\"\"

Leila Khurshid, Pharm.D.

Clinical pharmacy and medication

View experience
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","text":"HomeLibraryMedicationsAnti-Anxiety MedicationAnti-Anxiety MedicationWritten by Naomi CarrMedically reviewed by Morgan BlairPublished on March 30, 2023 · Updated on September 4, 2025Anti-anxiety medication, also known as anxiolytics, are a class of medications typically used to treat a variety of anxiety disorders. There are many types of anxiolytics that may have differing effects depending on the type and severity of the condition, the individual’s response to the medication, and the concurrent use of other medications or therapeutic treatments.Key takeawaysAnti-anxiety medications include several drug classes whose benefits and side effects vary by condition and individual response.Benzodiazepines act quickly but carry dependence and withdrawal risks that limit their long-term use.Medication may be combined with talking therapies and self-care, with monitoring for adverse effects and interactions.What is anti-anxiety medication? Anti-anxiety medications are often used to treat mental health disorders in which symptoms of anxiety occur, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder [1]. Symptoms of anxiety disorders may include [2]: Rapid heart rate Sweating Shaking Stomachache Feeling unable to stop worrying Trouble concentrating Sleep disturbances Intense or excessive fear of specific stimuli Avoidance of situations that induce anxiety Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are no longer listed as anxiety disorders in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) [3][4] but share several symptoms with anxiety disorders and are thus able to be treated with similar medications [5][6]. There are several different types of anti-anxiety medication, each of which works in a slightly different way in the brain. Many medications used to treat anxiety disorders are also used to treat other mental health conditions, as they can impact a variety of symptoms, along with producing varying side effects [1]. Medications often work differently for different people, so what is effective for one person may not be effective for another. As such, many people need to try more than one medication, or a combination of medications, to find the most effective treatment [5]. Types of anti-anxiety medication There are various types of medication used as anti-anxiety treatments, all of which work by impacting the action and transmission of various neurotransmitters in the brain. Each type of medication has a slightly different action, so impact varying symptoms and produce different side effects [1]. SSRIs Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are an antidepressant medication that has also been found to be effective in treating symptoms of anxiety. They are generally considered to be a safe medication, as they produce few side effects and have a low risk of drug interaction [7][8]. SSRIs work by reducing the reuptake of serotonin, thereby increasing the concentration of serotonin in the brain. Research indicates that low serotonin levels negatively impact mood, anxiety, and sleep, so an increase of serotonin can help to improve these symptoms [9].Also, many people with an anxiety disorder also experience symptoms of depression, so SSRIs are a useful treatment for those who experience symptoms of both conditions [1]. Commonly prescribed SSRIs include [5]: Sertraline Fluoxetine Citalopram Escitalopram Paroxetine SNRIs Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are also a type of antidepressant medication that are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, and generally considered to be effective and produce few side effects [8]. Similar to SSRIs, SNRIs impact serotonin levels, but also have a similar action on norepinephrine, increasing the concentration of this neurotransmitter in the brain [10].Research shows that norepinephrine regulates stress and arousal responses, indicating that low levels can increase symptoms of anxiety [11]. As such, the combination of effects on serotonin and norepinephrine allows for effective treatment of anxiety disorders. Commonly prescribed SNRIs include [8]: Duloxetine Venlafaxine Benzodiazepines Benzodiazepines are often prescribed to treat symptoms of anxiety disorders, as they are fast-acting and effective. However, they also are commonly abused and can lead to addiction and dependence, as well as producing potentially serious side effects. As such, benzodiazepines are recommended only for short-term use [1][8]. Benzodiazepines work by increasing the action of the neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which inhibits activity in the central nervous system [12]. By enhancing GABAergic activity, benzodiazepines can very quickly reduce symptoms of anxiety, hence their popularity [5]. Commonly prescribed benzodiazepines include [8]: Lorazepam Diazepam Alprazolam Clonazepam TCAs Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) increase the concentration of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, like several other antidepressant medications, so can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety. However, they are also known to cause several intolerable side effects, as well as a high risk of overdose with low doses, so are not commonly prescribed [1]. Clomipramine is a TCA that is often prescribed to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) [5]. Antihistamines Antihistamines are typically prescribed to treat allergies but can also reduce symptoms of anxiety. As a neurotransmitter, histamine is believed to regulate levels of norepinephrine and serotonin, thus improving mood and reducing anxiety. Antihistamines can also have a sedating effect, which can help to reduce sleep disturbances common with anxiety disorders [5][8]. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine medication that is prescribed as an anti-anxiety medication [8]. Azapirones Azapirones are a class of medication that can be used to treat depression and anxiety. They work by increasing levels of serotonin, thus improving mood and symptoms of anxiety [1][8]. Buspirone is an azapirone that is prescribed as an anti-anxiety medication [8]. Side effects of anti-anxiety medication When starting a new medication, it is common to experience side effects, but they will usually reduce as your body adjusts to the new medication. If any side effects persist or become problematic, it is important to contact your doctor, as you may need a reduced dose or a change of medication [1]. SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs Common side effects of most antidepressant medications used to treat anxiety include [5][7]: Stomach upset, including constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting Headache Sleep disturbances Drowsiness Dry mouth Change in appetite and weight Sexual dysfunction, such as reduced libido and erectile dysfunction Suicidal thoughts It is common for antidepressant medications to cause suicidal thoughts, particularly at the start of treatment. This risk has been found to be higher in people under the age of 25 [7]. If you or your family members notice any concerning changes in your mental state, or you have any thoughts of harming yourself, contact your doctor or mental health professional immediately. Benzodiazepines Common side effects of benzodiazepines include [5]: Drowsiness and sedation Dizziness Potential for abuse and dependence (recommended only for short-term use) Withdrawal symptoms Benzodiazepines can cause withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped. This risk is increased with higher doses, prolonged treatment, and abruptly stopping treatment [1][13]. Withdrawal symptoms can worsen symptoms of anxiety disorders and may include [13]: Agitation Panic attacks Sleep disturbances Muscle aches and stiffness Irritability Your doctor will likely gradually reduce your prescription to prevent withdrawal symptoms from occurring [1]. Other side effects Other side effects of anti-anxiety medications can include [5][6]: Sedation Dizziness Nausea Headache Dry mouth Constipation It is important that during your treatment you attend all arranged appointments with your doctor and to tell them about any side effects that you experience, so that they can monitor your physical and mental health and prevent or treat any serious effects that occur. What disorders does anti-anxiety medication treat? Some anti-anxiety medications are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for only one specific use, while others may be prescribed for several uses. Medications can also be prescribed for uses that are not approved by the FDA but have been deemed necessary for treatment by a medical professional, known as off-label use. Some of the conditions that can be treated by the various types of anti-anxiety medications include [1][5][8][14][15]: Generalized anxiety disorder Panic disorder Social anxiety disorder Specific phobias Agoraphobia Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Insomnia Depression Eating disorders Alcohol withdrawal Alternative treatments for anxiety disorders Often the most effective treatment for anxiety disorders is a combination of medication and talking therapy. Your doctor can discuss with you the available treatment options for your condition [1]. Medications People respond differently to different medications, so to treat anxiety or other disorders in which similar symptoms occur, you may need to try several medications or a combination of medications before you find the most effective treatment. There are many medications that were designed to treat other mental and physical health conditions but have since been found to be useful in managing symptoms of anxiety as well. Your doctor may prescribe you one of these medications off-label to help you manage your condition. This may include [1][5][8]: Beta-blockers, such as propranolol Anticonvulsants, such as pregabalin or lamotrigine Antipsychotics, such as quetiapine, risperidone, or olanzapine Atypical antidepressants, such as mirtazapine TherapiesTalking therapies can help to reduce emotional distress that can occur with certain mental health conditions, and it is recommended to engage in therapy alongside medication, for the most effective treatment. Various types of therapy are available, such as [1][2]: Talk therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of talk therapy that can be an effective treatment for anxiety disorders, by providing a better understanding of your condition, increasing tolerance to emotional distress, and teaching how to alter negative thoughts and behaviors. Family therapy: Family therapy can help you and your family better understand your condition and discuss any challenges that may be experienced, while providing your family members with support and education about how to help you manage your symptoms. Exposure therapy: Some anxiety disorders may benefit from exposure therapy, particularly phobias. Exposure therapy works by gradually increasing exposure to the feared stimulus, eventually resulting in desensitization and a reduction in symptoms of anxiety. Self-help Looking after your general well-being can help you to manage the symptoms of your condition, by improving and maintaining your physical and mental wellbeing with self-help techniques, such as [1][16]: Healthy eating Relaxation activities, such as meditation, breathing exercises, or yoga Forming and maintaining a regular sleep pattern Engaging in regular exercise Avoiding drugs and alcohol Attending all appointments with your doctor and mental health professionals Ensuring you follow advice and treatment plans References 1. Bandelow, B., Michaelis, S., & Wedekind, D. (2017). Treatment of Anxiety Disorders. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 19(2), 93–107. Retrieved from Treatment of Anxiety Disorders National Institute of Mental Health. (Reviewed 2022). Anxiety Disorders. NIH. Retrieved from National Institute of Mental Health American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., Text Revision). Washington, DC: APA American Psychiatric Association. (2013, text revision 2022). Anxiety Disorders. In The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.). APA. Retrieved from PsychiatryOnline Cassano, G.B., Baldini Rossi, N., & Pini, S. (2002). Psychopharmacology of Anxiety Disorders. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 4(3), 271–285. Retrieved from Psychopharmacology of Anxiety Disorders Melaragno, A.J. (2021). Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety Disorders: From First-Line Options to Treatment Resistance. Focus, 19(2), 145-160. Retrieved from Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety Disorders National Health Service. (Reviewed 2021). Side Effects - Antidepressants. NHS. Retrieved from NHS Garakani, A., Murrough, J.W., Freire, R.C., Thom, R.P., Larkin, K., Buono, F.D., & Iosifescu, D.V. (2020). Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders: Current and Emerging Treatment Options. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 11, 595584. Retrieved from Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders Albert, P.R., Vahid-Ansari, F., & Luckhart, C. (2014). Serotonin-Prefrontal Cortical Circuitry in Anxiety and Depression Phenotypes: Pivotal Role of Pre- and Post-Synaptic 5-HT1A Receptor Expression. Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, 8, 199. Retrieved from Serotonin-Prefrontal Cortical Circuitry in Anxiety and Depression Phenotypes Lambert, O., & Bourin, M. (2002). SNRIs: Mechanism of Action and Clinical Features. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, 2(6), 849–858. Retrieved from SNRIs Goddard, A.W., Ball, S.G., Martinez, J., Robinson, M.J., Yang, C.R., Russell, J.M., & Shekhar, A. (2010). Current Perspectives of the Roles of the Central Norepinephrine System in Anxiety and Depression. Depression and Anxiety, 27(4), 339–350. Retrieved from Current Perspectives of the Roles of the Central Norepinephrine System in Anxiety and… Lydiard, R.B. (2003). The Role of GABA in Anxiety Disorders. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 64 Suppl 3, 21–27. Retrieved from PubMed Pétursson, H. (1994). The Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome. Addiction (Abingdon, England), 89(11), 1455–1459. Retrieved from The Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome Chu, A., & Wadhwa, R. (2022). Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. In StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from National Library of Medicine Wong, J., Motulsky, A., Abrahamowicz, M., Eguale, T., Buckeridge, D.L., & Tamblyn, R. (2017). Off-Label Indications for Antidepressants in Primary Care: Descriptive Study of Prescriptions from an Indication Based Electronic Prescribing System. BMJ (Clinical Research ed.), 356, j603. Retrieved from Off-Label Indications for Antidepressants in Primary Care National Health Service. (Reviewed 2022). Self-help - Generalised Anxiety Disorder in Adults. NHS. Retrieved from NHS Medical ContentThe Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.About MentalHealth.comMentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. 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(2000). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., Text Revision). Washington, DC: APA","links":[]},{"number":4,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/anxiolytics#anxiety-disorders-source","text":"American Psychiatric Association. (2013, text revision 2022). Anxiety Disorders. In The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.). APA. Retrieved from PsychiatryOnline","links":[{"url":"https://dsm.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787.x05_Anxiety_Disorders","label":"PsychiatryOnline"}],"url":"https://dsm.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787.x05_Anxiety_Disorders"},{"number":5,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/anxiolytics#psychopharmacology-anxiety-disorders","text":"Cassano, G.B., Baldini Rossi, N., & Pini, S. (2002). Psychopharmacology of Anxiety Disorders. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 4(3), 271–285. Retrieved from Psychopharmacology of Anxiety Disorders","links":[{"url":"https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2002.4.3/gcassano","label":"Psychopharmacology of Anxiety Disorders"}],"url":"https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2002.4.3/gcassano"},{"number":6,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/anxiolytics#pharmacotherapy-anxiety-disorders-first-line-options-treatment-resistance","text":"Melaragno, A.J. (2021). Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety Disorders: From First-Line Options to Treatment Resistance. Focus, 19(2), 145-160. Retrieved from Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety Disorders","links":[{"url":"https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20200048","label":"Pharmacotherapy for Anxiety Disorders"}],"url":"https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.focus.20200048"},{"number":7,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/anxiolytics#side-effects-antidepressants","text":"National Health Service. (Reviewed 2021). Side Effects - Antidepressants. NHS. Retrieved from NHS","links":[{"url":"https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/medicines-and-psychiatry/antidepressants/side-effects/","label":"NHS"}],"url":"https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies-medicine-treatments/medicines-and-psychiatry/antidepressants/side-effects/"},{"number":8,"id":"https://mentalhealth-v2.workspace-454808.chatgpt.site/library/anxiolytics#pharmacotherapy-anxiety-disorders-current-emerging-treatment-options","text":"Garakani, A., Murrough, J.W., Freire, R.C., Thom, R.P., Larkin, K., Buono, F.D., & Iosifescu, D.V. (2020). Pharmacotherapy of Anxiety Disorders: Current and Emerging Treatment Options. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 11, 595584. 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