7 Xanax Alternatives: How Else You Can Help Treat Your Anxiety

September 7, 2023 2:47 pm Published by Leave your thoughts

Nootropic supplements — commonly referred to as “smart drugs” — can improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety. Some studies say they work by enhancing brain health and neurotransmitter function. Xanax is in the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, a type of anti-anxiety medication.

  • Benzos can be effective for managing severe anxiety and panic disorders, but they may not be suitable for individuals with a history of addiction or a family history of addiction.
  • Additionally, these gut bacteria help anxiety by significantly reducing levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
  • In addition to increasing serotonin levels, SNRIs also block the recycling of norepinephrine, increasing levels of this vital brain chemical.
  • Its effects can be far-reaching, often affecting daily activities and diminishing an individual’s overall quality of life.
  • The American College of Physicians also recommend CBT as a first-line treatment for insomnia.
  • In contrast, Xanax alternative medicine includes the use of natural remedies that can be derived from a broad range of different types of foods, herbs, vitamins, nutrients, minerals, and supplements.

Magnesium

SSRIs and SNRIs, the first-line medications for anxiety, are considered safer alternatives to non-controlled substances. We accomplish this by teaching our clients how to remain healthy and happy without drugs. By Xanax alternatives, we are not suggesting we help you find a “better” drug. In contrast, what we specialize in is matching a patient’s profile with the most effective non-pharmaceutical means to resolve symptoms. Our new mobile app makes it even easier to stay in touch with your care team and your mental health. We’re committed to delivering life-changing anxiety and depression care to everyone who needs it.

Xanax is a benzodiazepine medication that has the potential for misuse, dependence, and addiction. Xanax is a medication commonly prescribed for those who experience anxiety and panic disorders. As a fast-acting anti-anxiety medication, people may seek Xanax as a quick fix for their symptoms. However, antidepressants and therapy can be a safe alternative to Xanax and a more effective treatment.

best xanax alternative

GABA is a neurotransmitter that calms brain activity, which can help a person relax and fall asleep. Xanax is an addictive medication, so if a person feels they are becoming dependent on it, they should reach out to an addiction center or talk to their doctor. Moreover, understanding the potential pitfalls of medications like Xanax can inform more empowered treatment decisions. When it comes to anxiety or medication dependence, a multifaceted approach can provide the most holistic relief. If you or a loved one exhibits multiple signs of addiction, it’s imperative to consult a healthcare professional.

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Shedding light on alternatives to Xanax can lead individuals struggling with anxiety to try other treatments that are less habit-forming yet just as effective for long-term anxiety management. Benzos can be effective for managing severe anxiety and panic disorders, but they may not be suitable for individuals with a history of addiction or a family history of addiction. It’s important to note that Xanax and other benzodiazepines have the potential to create dependence and should only be used under the guidance of a medical practitioner 4. While benzodiazepines are still commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, there are better options that are generally safer, with a lower risk of addiction.

Non-Addictive Alternatives to Xanax

Over half of these visits are due to interactions between Xanax and alcohol or other drugs. However, 70% of Americans take at least one prescription drug, and two-thirds consume alcohol regularly. Second, by this time, addiction has set in and it becomes extremely hard to quit. Xanax comes with a long list of side effects that range from unpleasant to life-threatening.

  • Medication is often used with other therapies, such as psychotherapy, to treat anxiety disorders effectively.
  • Just make sure you speak with a licensed professional to help you as it is unsafe to stop abruptly.
  • The midlife-specific groups allowed clients to form a bond with one another through shared life experiences.
  • They will be able to help you find the best option based on your medical history, the severity of your anxiety symptoms, and discuss the pros and cons of each alternative with you.

Alternatives to Xanax for insomnia

Regular exercise can help regulate and reduce the release of cortisol, the primary stress hormone, promoting a more balanced emotional state (69). While many find anxiety relief through yoga, it might not resonate with everyone. Yoga also stimulates the production of endorphins, which can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety (67). Like physical exercise, the benefits of meditation are often most pronounced with regular and consistent practice.

Rooted in a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, it’s a condition that can drastically reduce one’s quality of life. But what amplifies its impact is its deceptive nature; it often remains cloaked, concealed behind daily stresses, making diagnosis and treatment a challenge. Our holistic approach supports your physical, mental, and spiritual health through a range of evidence-based treatment modalities. Non-pharmacological interventions, including therapy and lifestyle changes, should be considered in conjunction with medication.

This medication typically starts improving anxiety symptoms in three to four weeks. SNRIs help manage anxiety by preventing the quick reabsorption of serotonin and best xanax alternative norepinephrine in the brain. If Xanax is not taken properly or is used for longer than prescribed, it may lead to a high risk of misuse and physical dependence. This type of brain activity leads to symptoms like an increased heart rate and hypervigilance. Xanax is a popular FDA-approved drug prescribed to people with anxiety because of its effectiveness. If your treatment plan includes medication, your psychiatrist will prescribe and manage it.

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

A review of 38 studies found that taking psychobiotics can effectively reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders. Discontinuing the use of long-term benzodiazepines like Xanax should happen under the supervision of a doctor. Although medical detox cannot prevent withdrawal symptoms, specialists can help reduce the severity of symptoms, alleviate discomfort, and develop a treatment plan. Chamomile, a commonly used natural remedy for anxiety, is known for its calming properties.

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Numerous studies have evaluated CBT’s impact on conditions ranging from mental and physical disorders to behavioral problems. Research suggests that CBT can be effective for conditions like anxiety, depression, and many other mental health concerns 8. Beta-blockers prevent the stress hormone adrenaline (epinephrine) from contacting the beta receptors in the heart, which prevent the heart from pumping harder or faster. This helps to decrease the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a fast heart rate, a shaky voice, or hands, sweating, and dizziness.

The information in this article is for education and informational purposes only and should never be substituted for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 911 or the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 right away. It’s important to note that although SSRIs are not habit-forming in the traditional sense, they do require careful management. It’s essential to take SSRIs exactly as prescribed by a health-care professional, like a psychiatrist, and to follow their guidance regarding dosage adjustments, tapering, and discontinuation. As modern medicine evolves, it has begun to embrace, study, and confirm the benefits of some of these age-old practices. My recommendation is to limit your caffeine intake, have caffeine-free days, and/or stop caffeine consumption several hours before bedtime to prevent potential sleep disruptions.

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