Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can cripple people’s lives and leave them feeling trapped and alone. Many people turn to solutions such as medication to help them deal with the symptoms and impacts of living with conditions like anxiety in Clearwater.
Anti-anxiety medications, also known as ‘benzos,’ can offer significant relief for people suffering from the symptoms of anxiety. However, prescribing these medications can offer trigger an unwanted cycle, as the side effects of the medication can cause further anxiety.
What Are the Risks of Anti-Anxiety Medication?
Anti-anxiety medications, such as Klonopin and Xanax, are commonly used as a treatment for this common mental health condition. However, prescribing and taking these medications doesn’t come without risks. Frequently taking anti-anxiety medication can cause patients to become addicted, but it can also contribute to further anxiety in the long term.
This can create a difficult situation for doctors and other medical professionals who are trying to care for patients struggling with symptoms of anxiety. It can create a seemingly endless cycle for the patient, where they want to continue taking the medication for relief yet do not see the possibility of an end in sight.
Some studies have concluded that taking benzos at the same time as opioids – often taken for pain relief – can contribute further to the risks associated with this medication. The statistics suggested that people taking both medications were at higher risk of overdosing or even suffering from a fatal overdose.
Many patients find that benzos help them to deal with the symptoms of anxiety, which is why they continue to take this medication. Although there are other forms of treatment available to help with anxiety and depression, these are not always effective for every individual.
How to Mitigate the Risks of Anti-Anxiety Medication
It’s not always possible to take all the risks away, but there are several things that could help someone with anxiety mitigate the potential problems associated with medication.
Firstly, it’s important to speak to your doctor and let them know if you are concerned about the side effects and long-term consequences of taking benzos or another form of anxiety treatment. This can help them to understand more about your concerns and prescribe a different type of medication if needed.
Secondly, doctors may encourage people to wean off the medication over a period of time if they feel that a patient is developing a dependency. This often includes a long-term plan and suggestions for another form of anxiety treatment that could help. However, patients must also be willing to try others forms of anxiety treatments that could help them to manage their mental health more sustainably in the long run.
Finally, consider speaking to a therapist or other qualified mental health specialist who can help you to deal with challenging times. People who take medication to help with symptoms of anxiety might feel that they are alone or judged by others around them. An understanding therapist can create a safe space for you to share your concerns and manage some of the symptoms of anxiety and depression in a healthier way.
Getting the Support You Need When Living with Anxiety and Depression
There is a limit on how much you can control the symptoms of mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, but making the most of the support available can help you to live a happier and more fulfilling life. If you’re struggling with anxiety and depression in Clearwater, consider speaking to an experienced and professional therapist at TMS Advantage.
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