Treatment for Anxiety Disorders Treatment for Anxiety Disorders – Varies with Patient Treatment for anxiety disorders would depend on the person’s particular problem and his and the healthcare provider’s preferences. Before starting any treatment, the doctor must carry out a careful diagnostic assessment to find out if it is a physical problem or anxiety disorder that is behind the person’s symptoms. In evaluating the patient, determination of not only the anxiety disorder is important but also the presence of substance abuse, depression, or any other coexisting conditions. At times, it may be necessary to treat or control the co-morbid problems before anything can be done about the anxiety disorders. A Number of Effective Options Available •
Exposure Therapy – this helps the patient to face his fear triggers in a controlled and secure environment. By way of frequent exposures (real or imagined) to the fearful situation or object, the patient develops more control. The patient gradually manages to get rid of his anxiety as he learns to face the fear without being negatively affected.
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Hypnosis – Hypnosis may be used along with CBT therapy to treat anxiety. When the patient is in a deeply relaxed mode, the hypnotherapist would make use of various therapeutic techniques to assist him in facing his fears and seeing them in a new light.
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Medication – This includes antidepressants, beta blockers, anti-anxiety drugs, MAOIs, SSRIs, and tricyclics. Do not expect much positive effect by taking medication alone. It should be combined with psychotherapy or therapy to successfully conquer the anxiety disorder.
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Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) – The focus here is on cognitions or thoughts and on getting rid of the bad and substituting them more positively. So CBT therapy basically helps to recognize and face illogical beliefs and irrational thought patterns which trigger the anxiety.
Comorbidity of an Anxiety Disorder and Eating Disorder One important point to remember in treatment for anxiety disorders is that if the patient has an eating disorder co-existing with his anxiety disorder, treatment should set right both problems. This would help to keep relapse rates under control. Castlewood Treatment Center for eating disorders specializes in the treatment of all types of eating disorders as well as co-occurring Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, and Dissociative Disorders. Visit www.castlewoodtc.com for information on their treatment programs.