If you find yourself worrying uncontrollably about everyday tasks or if you are constantly and excessively anxious about issues like family health, finances or your job, you may be suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder. While everybody experiences anxiety occasionally, people who suffer from G.A.D. experience it so excessively that it can interfere with their ability to perform ordinary tasks.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder should be treated by a mental health professional, and treatment is usually multifaceted and tailored toward each individual, especially since the condition is often accompanied by depression or substance abuse. Most professionals recommend behavioral or cognitive therapy, or a combination of both of them, along with relaxation techniques, as an essential part of treatment. Some also recommend prescription anxiety medications, which can be effective in alleviating many symptoms. But increasingly, doctors and patients are finding that natural treatments for anxiety can provide much of the same relief as prescription medication, but without the potentially alarming side effects.
When combined with relaxation exercises, kava kava (or piper methysticum) is an excellent anxiety remedy that can also be used to promote sleep (insomnia is a common symptom of G.A.D.) if taken in a higher dosage. It should not be used as a sleep aid for longer than four months.
Valerian is a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia that is extremely popular worldwide. It is also used as a natural sedative and painkiller, and when taken at bedtime it can help prevent panic attacks.
Passion flower is an ingredient that can successfully treat insomnia, hyperactivity and nervous tension. Passion flower is naturally soothing and calming, and can also be used to treat hypertension and lower blood pressure.
Lavender is a popular natural remedy for a variety of conditions, one of which is anxiety disorder. Lavender is a nervous system tonic and one of the best natural panic attack treatments.
If you are already taking prescription medication and decide to stop in favor of natural remedies, it should always be in consultation with a healthcare professional. Natural remedies can provide a safe and effective alternative to other medications, but as with all medicine, it can take time to find the correct dosage for each individual, and it might take a few weeks before you see the effects. With patience and resolve, you may find yourself on the rewarding path to finding natural anxiety relief.
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