Learn more about the benefits and what to take instead of xanax challenges of providers with this form of training. Connect with experienced healthcare professionals who can guide you through personalized treatment options and tips for managing your anxiety. While SSRIs are generally well-tolerated, some people may experience mild side effects, like nausea, headaches, and insomnia.
- Typical side effects of Prozac for anxiety include sleepiness, nausea, diarrhea, and changes in libido or appetite.
- There are many different types of benzodiazepine and non-benzodiazepine medications used to treat anxiety.
- Xanax, or alprazolam, is a prescription medication that is part of a class of medications called benzodiazepines.
- Another showed that it can reduce pre-surgery anxiety, comparable to standard medications (4).
- Multiple clinical studies have investigated the effectiveness of Kava in treating anxiety.
- Ashwagandha is a natural herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to reduce stress and support overall wellness.
Valerian root
A study published in 2022 compared meditation and the antidepressant Lexapro for anxiety and found that the two were equally effective at managing symptoms. The researchers say that meditation works because it combines breathwork with an emphasis on staying present—so you’re not dwelling in worries about the past or the future. However, there are non-medication strategies for treating anxiety that actually have sufficient scientific research backing up their effectiveness. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered the first-line therapeutic treatment for anxiety. In CBT, your therapist works with you to identify the intrusive thoughts and behaviors contributing to your anxiety.
Non-Benzodiazepine Medications
If you’d like to ease off of Xanax in favor of a safer alternative, that is always an option. Just make sure you speak with a licensed professional to help you as it is unsafe to stop abruptly. A licensed provider can support you and help ensure you’re taking the necessary precautions. Calls to any general helpline will be answered by treatment providers, each of which is a paid advertiser. For those seeking addiction treatment for themselves or a loved one, our calls are confidential and are available for 24/7 help. In some cases, alprazolam may be a better solution, and in others, a Xanax alternative may be better.
Good sleep for anxiety
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- The great thing about natural remedies is that they tend to be cheaper and safer.
- However, dizziness and dryness of the mouth have been reported in those using this herb.
- Ashwagandha also possesses neuroprotective characteristics, supporting brain health, enhancing mood, and reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases (26).
- Exercise is a highly effective non-medical solution to preventing and treating anxiety.
Often called the “Indian ginseng,” this adaptogenic herb has been used for over 3,000 years to relieve stress, increase energy levels, and improve concentration. Beyond supplements and teas, lemon balm is also used in essential oil form for aromatherapy. Numerous studies have delved into Valerian’s effectiveness for anxiety. Similar to Passion flower, Valerian root affects GABA levels in the brain. By inhibiting the breakdown of GABA, Valerian can help calm anxiety (5). In the next sections, I’ll explore these natural Xanax alternatives in depth.
Along with Passion flower, Valerian was one of the first herbal remedies I took many years ago to manage my anxiety. This article will delve into these natural Xanax alternatives, presenting a holistic approach to managing anxiety and stress. The addiction treatment experts at Spring Hill Recovery Center in Ashby, MA can help. Our personalized addiction treatment programs take into consideration all of your mental health needs. Seek medical advice from your doctor or other healthcare provider before using any supplements.
How Effective Are Alternatives to Xanax?
One study pitted kava against two popular anti-anxiety drugs (buspirone and opipramol) and found that kava worked as well as either of them. It’s also available as an over-the-counter herbal remedy for anxiety, stress, and insomnia in the US and many other parts of the world. It should certainly not be taken with alcohol or other drugs,either prescription or recreational. ” Benzodiazepines, including Xanax, are among the hardest drugs to quit, along with hardcore drugs like heroin, cocaine, and crystal meth.
SNRIs, such as venlafaxine (Effexor), impact both serotonin and norepinephrine levels. These medications are prescribed for various mood disorders and may be considered as non-addictive alternatives to Xanax for anxiety management. Commonly used as antidepressants, SSRIs can also be effective in managing anxiety disorders. Medications like sertraline (Zoloft) and escitalopram (Lexapro) increase serotonin levels in the brain, offering a non-addictive alternative to Xanax.
Natural and alternative treatments for anxiety have been used for ages, long before prescription drugs like benzodiazepines were developed. It is a blessing from nature that these straightforward, but powerful alternatives exist. Xanax is highly addictive, has a high risk of abuse, can come with many harsh reactions — and can be incredibly difficult to stop taking. Many individuals would be blown away by the power of natural Xanax alternatives and how efficient they are.