Creating a treatment plan for anxiety disorder

Understanding anxiety disorder as an individual with the diagnosis, or as a loved one, can begin with reviewing individualized treatment options for anxiety disorder, which can include a combination of therapy and medication. It is important to know that therapy and medication are distinct methods of treatment. 

Defining Therapy & Medication

While therapy can include medication, you and a mental health provider may decide to try using talk therapy and medication separately, or combined. 

Therapy involves engaging with a mental health provider to reflect, discuss, and modify thought and behavior patterns. A licensed therapist, psychiatrist, or psychologist can administer therapy in-person or online. Given there are dozens of types of therapy, you may decide which approach will be most effective for you. 

Medication is used alone or combined with therapy. Benzodiazepines such as Ativan or Xanax, or Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Lexapro or Prozac, can be used to regulate neurotransmitters and calm your mind. 

Individualizing Your Care

There is no one-size-fits-all plan for treating anxiety disorders. Our providers understand anxiety disorders can concern specific interpersonal struggles, such as socialization or performance. 

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

  • Panic Disorder

  • Phobia

  • Separation Anxiety

  • Social Anxiety

Our clinic does not immediately treat anxiety with medications—we can individualize your treatment plan with talk therapy, to build your confidence and processing skills, and/or exposure therapy. 

In addition to therapy and/or medication, you may also try lifestyle changes, such as: 

  • Trying meditation, or 15-minute intervals of quiet time

  • Avoiding caffeine, which can worsen restlessness 

  • Exploring aromatherapy oils that can reduce anxiety with smells

  • Try short exercise sessions (5-10 minutes); exercise can produce neurotransmitters called endorphins, which are natural pain relievers and can improve your sleep quality

If you book a consultation, one of our licensed providers can help you or your loved one find the best course of treatment for anxiety. 

Lillian Mortonanxiety, medication, medication management, therapyComment