Featuring Dr. Lakshmi Yatham, MBBS, FRCPC, MRCPsych (UK)
, Treatment of Anxiety & Panic Disorders
Duration: 54 seconds
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder can indeed be treated effectively through a combination of psychological and pharmacological approaches.
Psychological treatments, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are widely used and highly effective in managing both generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to their anxiety. It also focuses on developing effective coping strategies and behavioral techniques to manage anxiety symptoms. CBT can be conducted in individual therapy sessions or as part of a group program.
Pharmacological treatments, such as antidepressant medications, are commonly prescribed for these anxiety disorders. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are often used and have shown efficacy in reducing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. These medications work by balancing neurotransmitter levels in the brain associated with anxiety regulation.
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a family physician or psychiatrist, who can evaluate your specific symptoms and circumstances to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you. They can provide guidance on the various treatment options available, including the potential benefits and side effects of medications, and help tailor the approach to your individual needs.
If you have further questions or concerns about the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder, it is highly recommended to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide you with more information, address your specific concerns, and guide you through the treatment process to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder could be treated with psychological treatments or pharmacological treatments.
Generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder are very much treatable. There are pharmacological strategies, also psychological strategies. Both types of methods are very effective in improving symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder as well as panic disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most commonly used psychological strategy to treat anxiety disorder and panic disorder. In terms of pharmacological strategies, we tend to use antidepressants, and those work very well, too.
If you have more questions about treatment of these conditions, please make sure to speak with your family physician or a psychiatrist.
Presenter: Dr. Lakshmi Yatham, Psychiatrist, Vancouver, BC
Local Practitioners: Psychiatrist
