Anxiety Treatments

Treatment

Effective treatment usually involves a combination of interventions, including:

Lifestyle Changes

Get sufficient rest and sleep .
If you smoke, quit .
Reduce or eliminate caffeinated beverages.
Drink alcohol in moderation.
Avoid illicit drugs.
Reduce exposure to stressful environments.
Exercise regularly .

Relaxation Techniques

Deep breathing
Meditation
Deep muscle relaxation
Massage
Engaging in pleasurable activities
Yoga

Social Support

Strong support system of family and friends
Counseling to improve coping skills
Support groups

Psychotherapy

This therapy addresses thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that play a role in anxiety. It helps you work through traumas and conflicts.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help you identify negative thought patterns and behaviors. Over time, you can learn to retrain your thinking. This will help you choose better options in response to stress and anxiety.

Medication

For severe anxiety or anxiety disorder, medicines may include:

Benzodiazepines
Buspirone
Antidepressants (eg, tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors [SSRIs])

If you are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, follow your doctor's instructions .

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.