complementary and alternative medical
The majority of the population suffering from anxiety disorders use the CAM (complementary and alternative medical) treatments. CAM has become significantly popular among people with anxiety that has prompted the research on its efficacy and safety. Notably, the disorder is not associated with any general medical condition, but the initial treatment approach entails non-pharmacological therapies. The therapies include psychotherapy, short-term counseling, stress management, medication, and exercise. Patients whose anxiety disorder is presented with functional impairment and emotional distress are treated with medication that reduces any potential hazards such as abuse and dependence related to their use. Medication treatment of anxiety disorder is considerably effective and safe, with the most commonly used drugs being serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, benzodiazepine, and antidepressants. Every course of treatment requires patience, and some take longer than others, hence the need to consult a physician.
On the other hand, some patients who apply complementary and alternative medical therapies, which has lesser side effects compared to conventional treatment. Persons diagnosed with anxiety disorders frequently have recurring mental illnesses that are caused by physical and psychological problems. Such patients are taught to cope with life stresses through therapeutic sessions to enable passive acceptance of the situation. Two therapies that are applied relaxation and acceptance-based behavior therapy are essential in assisting the patient recover from anxiety without medication. The two therapies improve the interpersonal functioning and prevent the possible risk of panic disorder among patients with anxiety trait.
Although various therapies have been applied in treating and managing anxiety disorders cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is more effective compared to the other psychological treatments. Anxiety-related bodily sensations are triggered by varying degrees of multiple contexts that have harmful consequences. CBT treatment assists the patient to reduce worry and anxiety through teaching different ways of behaving, reacting, and thinking. Another aspect of CBT is systemic exposure that allows the patient to face their fears and develop problem-solving mechanisms.
Despite the extensive medical and therapy treatments surrounding mental illnesses, there is an increased prevalence of anxiety disorders, making it the highest psychiatric diagnosis. Cognitive-behavioral treatment incorporates the exposure therapy that is effective, but raises ethical issues. The client’s safety is of concern and creates a blurry line between the patients and the therapists, which explains the high treatment dropout rates. On the other hand, various myths and views exist on the adverse effects of the treatment that have resulted in its underutilization. Exposure therapy bears minimal risks and is tolerable when implemented correctly, however, it creates ethical considerations especially among children. Anxiety disorders affect a large population, interfere with the daily functioning of individuals, and can lead to substance abuse, depression, suicide attempts among other complications. Hence, anxiety disorder has become a pressing issue for mental health professionals on the future treatment of the patients. In the recent past, the knowledge, best practices, causes, and management of anxiety disorders has expanded considerably. Unlike in the past where the disorders were primarily based on biological and psychological factors, in the future, the medical personnel will concentrate more on the interaction between the brain and patients’ experiences. Some of the pharmacological and psychological treatments that were considered less effective are slowly gaining recognition. It is recommendable that in future the diagnosis and treatment of anxiety disorders become more elaborate regarding classification. The categorization should include axes such as genotype, behavioral, neurobiological, and environmental phenotypes. The above classifications will ensure specific therapeutic and clinical responses are administered for defined anxiety disorders.