Often considered cures for panic attacks, are antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs really the answer? Benzodiazepines include alprazolam and clonazepam, while common SSRI antidepressants include Zoloft and Paxil. Generally, patients may find that antidepressants require time to work. Unfortunately, medication does little to tackle the actual cause of anxiety disorders, they merely reduce the symptoms. For some sufferers, this can mean that symptoms return once they stop using medication. Anti-anxiety medications are not supposed to be taken over long periods, so this is now the solution. There is a danger that sufferers become chronic users if they continue to take prescription medication for long periods. It may be more difficult to recover from anxiety with medication since they are addictive and may cause withdrawal symptoms. Long term use of medication can result in physiological and psychological dependency. People who continue to take anti-anxiety medication may come to rely on them and believe that they can't live without them. This negative belief itself becomes an anxiety. Moreover, discontinuing the use of medication following an extended period of use could end up in rebound anxiety and spark withdrawal symptoms. Even short term use of anti-anxiety medication has risks. Medication is not 100% effective at treating anxiety and research shows that it can worsen anxiety in some people. Some patients might even find that medication triggers anxiety attacks. Some doctors may use medication in combination with therapy for severe patients who find it difficult to undergo therapy. Generally the outcome for such use is successful, but with medication alone, it is very poor. So what about the alternatives? Natural aids such as St John's Worts are often available at most chemists and do not require a prescription. This is not to say herbal remedies are better than medication but usually they are less addictive and have little side effects. Regardless, neither forms of ingested medicines are not effective long term cures for panic attacks. They are usually fine as short term aids but shouldn't be considered a complete solution. Before taking medication it's important to consult a physician for proper diagnosis and treatment. Women expecting a baby should avoid taking certain medications. Results show that a majority of sufferers respond well to treatments such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). Behavioral therapy is perhaps the most effective form of treatment available. Because psychotherapies often tackle patterns of behavior and negative beliefs that cause anxiety they make better cures for panic attacks. While success of therapy can dramatically improve a person's life, long term maintenance of mental health is important. Anxiety disorders can re-develop if the habits and behaviors that caused them remain unchanged. Maintaining health and taking care of one's physical and mental wellbeing can reduce the chances of diseases and disorders. Although cures for panic attacks do exist, success depends on the individual's ability and dedication. Change comes from wanting to change no matter the cost. There's no such thing as an instant cure, since therapy can take months to take effect. Moreover, adjustments to daily routine, habits and awareness of certain triggers need attention in order to ease anxiety.
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