What Are The Most Common Treatments For Anxiety Disorders?

— -- Question: What are the most common treatments for anxiety disorders?

Answer: The most common treatments for anxiety disorders are either psychotherapy -- which is talking therapy -- medication, or a combination of both. Which mix of those you have may depend on what type of anxiety disorder you have, and your own preference certainly on when you discuss this with your doctor. In terms of medications, the antidepressant medications are the most common group of medications given for anxiety disorders. They are very helpful, even in patients who have no evidence of depression.

Other types of medications are a class called benzodiazepines, which are geared just for anxiety. In terms of psychotherapy, or talking therapy, not all types of talking therapy are effective for the treatment of anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy or behavioral therapy are the two most researched. Certainly if you have an anxiety disorder you want to find a therapist who is hopefully certified in cognitive behavioral therapy. That type of therapy helps you change the type of thinking you have, which in turn decreases or eliminates totally your anxiety symptoms.

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