Anti anxiety Medication vs. Natural Therapy

A person weary of the constant feelings of anxiety may seek help from a trusted doctor or therapist. Following an evaluation, a doctor will normally prescribe counseling and an anti-anxiety medication to help ward of the symptoms of anxiety. Tranquilizing drugs such as Paxil, Xanax, Valium, Zoloft, Prozac are among the most commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications. Each of these medications has side effects, however. Because these drugs are designed to slow brain activity, such side effects may include:

• Fatigue
• Loss of coordination
• Slurred speech
• Memory loss
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Mental confusion
• Mental slowing

Rare side effects can also include:

• Hallucinations
• Rage
• Manic behavior
• Aggression
• Addiction

Combining anti-anxiety medication with alcohol, other prescription drugs, or illicit drugs can be extremely dangerous and even fatal. It is important that anyone who is prescribed an anti-anxiety medication diligently researches all of the possible side effects of the medication and follows dosage instructions very carefully. Any concerns about side effects should be thoroughly discussed with a doctor.

Many anxiety sufferers find that holistic health or alternative therapies are just as effective with fewer risks and side effects. Some of those therapies include:

• Valerian extract
• Passion flower (Also used as a treatment for insomnia, Passion flower can cause drowsiness and should not be used before driving or operating heavy machinery)
• L-theanine
• Massage therapy
• Self-hypnosis
• Meditation
• Yoga
• Sage herb

Regardless as to whether a person opts for anti-anxiety medication or more natural ways of treating anxiety, it's important to evaluate situations and lifestyle changes that may be the underlying reason for anxious feelings. A more holistic health approach is necessary in dealing with such conditions as medications and even natural remedies can only go so far in treating the symptoms of anxiety. To truly be rid of anxious feelings or an accompanying depression, a person must begin to learn about and balance their mental, physical, and spiritual ways of being in order to increase a powerful, healthy living standard that will sustain them for a lifetime.

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  Resources:

  http://www.healthyplace.com/COMMUNITIES/Depression/nimh/medications_6.asp

  http://www.seredyn.com/zznaturalanti-anxietymedication.html

  http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/conditionsatod/a/Anxiety.htm

  http://www.helpguide.org/mental/anxiety_medication_drugs_treatment.htm

  http://www.holistic-herbalist.com/herbs-for-anxiety.html

  
  
  

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