When dealing with an anxiety disorder, sometimes therapy doesn't feel like enough. In cases of severe anxiety, a doctor may prescribe medication to help manage symptoms. However, for many who are struggling with an anxiety disorder, asking someone to prescribe anxiety medication may feel difficult to do. In this article, we'll share step by step how to best approach your doctor or therapist with a request for anxiety medication.
Anxiety disorders are a common mental health condition, affecting approximately 40 million adults in the United States, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Anxiety disorders can severely impact daily life and function, so getting help is important.
Many things can contribute to the severity of anxiety or an anxiety disorder, including biological, genetic, or environmental factors.
Recognizing the signs of anxiety, such as feeling overwhelmed or having trouble concentrating, can help you understand when it is appropriate to seek help.
You may already be seeing a therapist for your symptoms, but sometimes when anxiety symptoms are severe, it can take time to work through the process. In the meantime, anxiety medication can help manage symptoms, or even be a PRN solution for in the moment issues that are connected to social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or phobias. For example, a doctor may prescribe medications that you would be directed to take before a flight, or before a work presentation.
When considering anxiety medication, it’s essential to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and concerns. Begin by describing your anxiety symptoms, such as feeling panicky or worried, and how they affect your daily life.
Be honest about your anxiety and how it’s impacting your relationships, work, and overall well-being.
It can help to write down your questions and concerns ahead of time to ensure you get all your questions answered. People who experience generalized anxiety disorder or other forms of anxiety disorder often find it challenging to remember what they wanted to say or ask in the moment, so come prepared.
You can talk to several different types of clinicians about anti-anxiety medication, including primary care providers, psychiatrists, and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, while a primary care provider can check for underlying medical conditions.
Psychiatric nurse practitioners can diagnose and treat mental illnesses, including prescribing medications.
Primary mental health professionals, whether a psychiatric nurse practitioner or a psychiatrist, can help assess mental health needs and prescribe anxiety medication if necessary. If they prescribe medication, it may take time to determine the appropriate dosage and type for greatest efficacy.
Patients should expect a thorough medical evaluation, including a physical exam and medical history, before being prescribed anxiety medication. A psych evaluation gives your healthcare provider a clearer picture of your mental state.
Your primary care doctor may recommend an anti-anxiety medication to help manage your symptoms, and work with medication management to find the right amount and type of anxiety meds to help manage your symptoms. The type and dosage of anxiety medication prescribed will depend on the individual patient’s needs and medical history.
If your primary care physician is not comfortable with prescribing anxiety medication, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner to for medication management.
To get anxiety medication, meet with your provider and discuss your symptoms in depth, explaining how they negatively impact your life. Your provider will assess your anxiety levels and may refer you to a mental health specialist if needed. Talk therapy is an important part of getting the most out of your medication, so if you are not already in therapy, it is a good idea to start even if you are asking to be prescribed anti-anxiety medication.
Bring up the topic of medication with your psychiatrist and ask if they believe medication is right for you. If they prescribe anxiety medication, be sure to ask questions about both benefits and risks.
Different types of anxiety disorders may require different medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), benzodiazepines, or beta blockers.
Benzodiazepines are a type of medication commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, but they can be habit-forming and have potential side effects.
Anti-anxiety medications can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, such as worry, fear, and panic attacks. However, it’s essential to understand the benefits, risks, and possible side effects of medications before starting treatment. When prescribed anxiety medication, your doctor should go over the risks so you can make the right decision for you.
Taking anxiety medication as prescribed is crucial for effective treatment, so be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Work with your clinician to find the right medication and dosage for your specific situation, including any potential interactions with other medications you may be taking. Medications can cause side effects, such as dry mouth or changes in appetite, be sure ask about possible side effects and how long it may take to see results so you know what to expect.
Issues with anxiety can severely impact daily life and function, so getting help is important. Talking to your primary care doctor about anxiety medications is a good start, but anxiety meds are only a piece of the puzzle when it comes to anxiety disorders like GAD, social anxiety, or panic disorder.
Seeking help from a mental health professional for treating anxiety can help individuals with anxiety develop healthy and effective coping skills and learn to manage their symptoms.
A personalized treatment plan outlines treatments to help you. Your doctor may prescribe anti-anxiety medication or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, but your treatment plan may recommend other forms of treatment, such as therapy. Be sure to ask questions and discuss the plan with your care team. Follow-up care is essential to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Anxiety medication can be an effective treatment for anxiety disorders. When your doctor decides to prescribe anxiety medication for a generalized anxiety disorder or other mental health conditions, it's still important to work with a mental health professional who can help you find the right anxiety treatment plan for your specific needs.
At Williamsburg Therapy Group our team of doctoral-level anxiety psychotherapists offers both online and in-person sessions to accommodate a busy life, and allow you to work with a provider that can facilitate healing, and offering a variety of practical strategies and healthy coping skills that will allow you to reduce the emotional and physical symptoms of anxiety and experience a greater quality of life.
Don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re struggling with anxiety. With the right treatment and support, it’s possible to treat anxiety and improve overall well-being. If you have been thinking about seeking anxiety treatment, reach out to our customer service coordinator to get matched with a professional who can offer tools and strategies to manage symptoms, whether you are on anxiety medications or not.