Benzodiazepines, which became available in the 1960s, were some of the first medications prescribed specifically for anxiety. While these drugs work quickly and effectively, they carry a high risk of dependence, sedation, and tolerance buildup. In summary, natural alternatives offer a multifaceted approach to handling anxiety and stress. Cutting back or eliminating caffeine can serve as a natural approach to reducing anxiety, making it a lifestyle alternative to medications like Xanax.
Practice mindfulness and meditation
The researchers concluded it has positive effects similar to the effects of standard anti-anxiety medications (20-22). This article will delve into these natural Xanax alternatives, presenting a holistic approach to managing anxiety and stress. Working with a therapist generally involves regular talk therapy sessions where you discuss your feelings, problem-solving strategies, and coping mechanisms to help with your condition. These drugs are central-nervous-system depressants that can both have calming effects. Trazodone, which might be sold under the brand name Desyrel, is an antidepressant classified as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). It is primarily used to treat depression but is also prescribed off-label to help alternatives to xanax for anxiety with sleep because of its sedating effects lowering your heart rate.
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (antidepressants) that treat anxiety
However, it works more gradually, promoting sleep and possibly lowering cortisol levels — without the risk of dependency. It activates certain serotonin receptors in the brain to create a feeling of relaxation. Higher dosages can lead to withdrawal and dependency issues in the long run. If you’re in emotional distress, text HOME to connect with a counselor immediately.
- Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
- Other commonly prescribed drugs of this class include diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin), temazepam (Restoril), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and midazolam (Versed).
- A balanced autonomic nervous system means there’s a healthy balance between the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) responses (71).
- While these natural remedies for anxiety can be beneficial, their effects may be more subtle and take longer to notice than those of prescription medications.
- For informational purposes only, a link to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Open Payments web page is provided here.
Expert care for anxiety is here. See if Talkiatry is right for you.
The path to holistic mental health is paved with informed choices, consistent support, and unwavering determination. There are several self-help techniques that can be incorporated into daily routines to drastically reduce symptoms and help manage anxiety over time. Many work as an effective stand-alone treatment, and others have enhanced effectiveness when combined with additional forms of treatment like medication or natural alternatives.
Passion flower can be safely combined with other natural anti-anxiety remedies, amplifying its effects. Another showed that it can reduce pre-surgery anxiety, comparable to standard medications (4). It’s believed to increase levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA lowers the activity of some brain cells, promoting a sense of relaxation (2). As a result, it presents a promising natural alternative to pharmaceutical drugs like Xanax.
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Non-pharmacological interventions, including therapy and lifestyle changes, should be considered in conjunction with medication. These approaches can enhance the overall effectiveness of anxiety management. While beta-blockers like propranolol are not traditional anxiolytics, they can be effective in managing physical symptoms of anxiety, such as tremors and increased heart rate. Drugs like buspirone (BuSpar) and hydroxyzine (Vistaril) are non-benzodiazepine anxiolytics. These alternatives may be considered for individuals seeking options with a lower risk of addiction.
Besides these side effects, one of the main downsides of Xanax is that it can be habit-forming. However, another concern with Xanax or any benzodiazepines is the chance of increased risk for dementia, the higher your dose and the longer you use it. L-theanine, for example, is derived from green tea extract and has been used for anxiety, although studies have thus far found both negative and positive results. Ashwagandha is another extract used for anxiety, with some successful clinical trials, although the data is limited. Another feature to understand about SSRI use for anxiety compared to benzos is the slower onset of action.
In this article we’ll detail the dangers of Xanax and other ways you can treat your anxiety. As a fellow benzodiazepine (benzo), Klonopin does not escape the hazards or side effects of Xanax, namely the potential for abuse and physical dependence, as well as sedation and unsteadiness. These concerns are heightened for anyone with a history of substance abuse or older adults with a greater risk of falls. These agents are also best avoided with the use of concurrent opiate pain relievers due to the danger of respiratory depression (reduced breathing) and death. Learn more about treatment and how to receive access to prescription medications online.
Hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) is an antihistamine that’s sometimes prescribed to treat anxiety or insomnia. It’s a short-term medication that can be used as an alternative to benzodiazepines. A 2016 systematic review found that propranolol may be as effective as benzodiazepines in the short-term treatment of panic disorder. SSRIs are effective for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), phobias, and panic disorder. Today, the first-line medications for anxiety are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Because of this, it’s important for people with anxiety to have alternatives to benzodiazepines.
- Theanine has gained attention for its calming and cognitive-enhancing properties.
- Moreover, understanding the potential pitfalls of medications like Xanax can inform more empowered treatment decisions.
- CBT equips patients with practical tools and strategies to manage anxiety symptoms in their daily lives, often leading to long-lasting improvements.
- Be sure to carefully follow a healthcare provider’s instructions on how to take the medication.
Talkspace offers an accessible, affordable way to enhance your mental well-being and take control of your anxiety. Loved for its soothing, pleasant scent, lavender is commonly used in essential oils for anxiety, sachets, diffusers, and candles. Research shows that inhaling lavender for just 3 minutes can decrease anxiety and enhance mood. Maintaining strong connections with friends and family, or joining support groups, can provide emotional support and practical assistance in coping with anxiety. Identifying and avoiding triggers is an important aspect of anxiety management. This might involve making changes to your environment, relationships, or daily routines to minimize exposure to anxiety-provoking situations.
In this article, we outline several safe and effective alternatives — from other medications to natural remedies and lifestyle changes — so you find the best choice for your mental health. Since Xanax and other benzodiazepines such as Ativan are habit-forming and can lead to physical dependence, you should take some precautions when deciding to stop using them. Be sure to talk with your provider about how you can decrease your dependence and manage withdrawal symptoms safely. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, Brightside Health is here to help. We can connect you to a therapist, or to a medical provider that can help you reduce anxiety and get feeling better.
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Read on to learn about other prescription medications, over-the-counter (OTC) options, or natural alternatives to Xanax that might be a better fit for treating your anxiety. Lavender essential oil, whether used in aromatherapy or taken orally in capsule form, has shown promising results in reducing anxiety symptoms. The calming scent of lavender is believed to have a direct effect on the brain’s GABA receptors, similar to how benzodiazepines work.
