Anxiety can be a difficult condition to live with and have a major impact on your life. There are many traditional, as well as nontraditional, treatments available for anxiety. Psychotherapy and prescribed medication are often used as the main anxiety treatments. Self-care activities and the use of ketamine for anxiety can also be helpful in some cases. Here are five ways to help improve your anxiety:
Psychotherapy or Talk Therapy
If you’re looking for a noninvasive, drug-free method of treating your anxiety, talk therapy is an excellent option that has proven effective in treating various mental health conditions. Through talk therapy, you can work with a trained therapist or counselor to identify the root cause of your anxiety and develop strategies to manage it. They can help you determine the best steps for treatment, including recommending medications, implementing lifestyle changes, and building your confidence.
Talking through your thoughts and feelings with a trained therapist helps provide insights that can lead to behavior changes and improved coping skills. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a highly effective type of psychotherapy in treating anxiety disorders.
Medications
There are several different medications that can be used to help treat anxiety, including:
- Antianxiety medication, such as buspirone
- Certain antidepressants
- Sedatives or beta-blockers (for short-term relief)
The medication prescribed to you will depend on the severity of your anxiety and if you have additional mental health concerns. Consult with your doctor if you think medication could be a good option to help treat your anxiety.
Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress in some people. Through mindful practices, you learn to stay present in the moment and become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It can help lessen the intensity of anxious thoughts and allow you to manage them better. These practices include:
- Accepting yourself
- Living in the moment
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Self-reflection
Self-care and Regular Exercise
Taking care of yourself is important in managing your anxiety symptoms. Some activities that may be beneficial include:
- Practicing relaxation techniques
- Moving your body
- Getting enough sleep
- Avoiding drug and alcohol use
- Eating adequate healthy foods
- Engaging in hobbies or activities that bring you joy
Regular physical activity releases hormones that help improve mood and reduce stress. Incorporating aerobic exercises such as running, swimming, or cycling into your daily routine may help you cope with anxious feelings.
Ketamine for Anxiety
Ketamine has been studied for its potential use in treating treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions such as PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, and chronic pain. It has been described to have fast and robust antidepressant effects.
This drug is FDA-approved and has been used in the mental health field for over 20 years. Ketamine for anxiety can help enhance your current treatment plan or provide the relief you haven’t been able to find elsewhere. Talk with your doctor about ketamine before trying it to make sure it’s the right option for you.
Find Treatment for Your Anxiety
Options for treating anxiety include therapy, medication, and various self-care methods. If you are considering ketamine therapy for your anxiety, discuss the risks and benefits with your primary doctor. Your doctor will help you weigh the pros and cons of ketamine therapy and determine if it is the right choice for you. Get treatment for your anxiety and start improving your quality of life today.
