For decades, Geoff thought he couldn’t open up about his depression. After all, he was the doctor. And doctors are the fixers, not the ones who need fixing.

Recovery started with talking. And he wants other healthcare workers to do the same.

About Beyond Blue
Established in October 2000, Beyond Blue initially focused on raising awareness of depression and reducing the associated stigma. As our knowledge and impact on people’s lives broadened, through research and community engagement, we added the key issue of anxiety conditions in 2011 and, more recently, suicide prevention to our core purpose.

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Mental Health Treatment For Anxiety Disorders

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Mental Health Treatment For Anxiety Disorders

Using mental health treatment for anxiety disorders can provide relief for those suffering from the disorder. Various psychotherapy and medication options are effective in treating various types of anxiety. A combination of these elements can be effective, but it is also important to consider the patient’s preferences. The treatment team should be aware of any co-occurring conditions to provide the most effective treatment options. Listed below are some of the common treatments for anxiety. Some patients may find that a combination of several different types of treatments is best.

Benzodiazepines, sometimes called tranquilizers, are the most widely prescribed medications for anxiety. This type of medication has an immediate effect and brings relief within thirty minutes to one hour. Benzodiazepines are effective for both panic attacks and overwhelming episodes of anxiety, but are highly addictive and not recommended for long-term use. They may be less effective than a placebo, and may even lead to addiction. Moreover, these drugs can increase the risk of side effects and are not recommended for long-term use.

Among all the psychotherapies for anxiety disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective. This method targets the counterproductive thoughts and behavior patterns associated with anxiety, and offers constructive strategies for managing those negative emotions. Unlike some forms of psychotherapy, CBT is effective when delivered outside the traditional in-person setting. Using telehealth technology, such as phone calls or video chats, the program can be delivered just as effective as face-to-face therapy.

During an attack, your body releases a rush of adrenalin, a chemical messenger that triggers the fight-or-flight response, preparing your body for flight or escape. However, in modern times, humans are less concerned about running away from danger than they were in pre-historic times. Their worries are about work, money, family life, and their health. Thus, the effects of adrenalin can be far-reaching. It is critical to understand how the brain responds to anxiety.

If a combination of other therapies has been unsuccessful, medication may be the right solution. Many people find relief from anxiety using various kinds of antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs. Some people respond well to these medicines, while others have to try several different drugs. If a combination of medications does not work, talk to your doctor about trying a different treatment option. In most cases, antidepressants and benzodiazepines are the most effective medications for anxiety.

Selective mutism is another example of a form of anxiety in children. People with this condition fail to speak to others, even when they know them well. They avoid places, situations, and behaviors associated with these attacks. This extreme form of social phobia is also a symptom of social anxiety disorder. Often, social anxiety is accompanied by extreme shyness or fear of social embarrassment. People with this disorder may even have difficulty performing everyday activities due to the fear of being judged or observed.