Anxiety disorders are the most common types of psychiatric disorder. The diagnosis of an anxiety disorder is based largely on its symptoms. However, symptoms identical to those of an anxiety disorder can be caused by a medical condition (for example, an overactive thyroid gland) or by the use of drugs (for example, corticosteroids, amphetamines, cocaine, or excess caffeine).

Patients with generalized anxiety disorder experience worry or anxiety and a number of physical and psychological symptoms. The disorder is frequently difficult to diagnose because of the variety of presentations and the common occurrence of other medical or psychiatric conditions. The lifetime prevalence is approximately 4 to 6 percent in the general population and is more common in women than in men. It is often chronic, and patients with this disorder are more likely to be seen by family physicians than by psychiatrists. Treatment consists of pharmacotherapy and various forms of psychotherapy. The benzodiazepines are used for short-term treatment, but because of the frequently chronic nature of generalized anxiety disorder, they may need to be continued for months to years. Buspirone and antidepressants are also used for the pharmacologic management of patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Patients must receive an appropriate pharmacologic trial with dosage titrated to optimal levels as judged by the control of symptoms and the tolerance of side effects.

Natural ways to combat anxiety
5-HTP  reduces anxiety by increasing levels of serotonin, often works within hours, and one study says 5-HTP may be helpful in panic attacks. 5-HTP is a good anxiety treatment for those whose depression is associated with anxiety, restlessness, or racing thoughts. 5-HTP may help you lose weight, too.
Ashwagandha is helpful with relaxation and mood balancing properties.
Tryptophan is an amino acid that helps form serotonin.
Kava Kava is from the South Pacific islands. Anti-anxiety effects usually noticed within a couple of hours. Kava is good for both stress and anxiety and also social anxiety.
Valerian is able to reduce anxiety as demonstrated in a few studies
Theanine may be helpful for some people.

Anxiety questions
Q. I bought a bottle of Passion Rx with Yohimbe and I am a woman 36 and healthy. I take anti-anxiety medicine on occasion I get anxiety once and a while some days not at all . I take Niravam for quick response and I have Xanax which I rarely take. Can I take Passion Rx with anxiety meds like Niravam and Xanax?
   A. Alprazolam (Xanax or Niravam) is a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines belong to a group of medicines that slow down the central nervous system and can help in reducing anxiety, but can also reduce sexual urge and drive. We have not tested the combination of alprazolam and Passion Rx. Many pharmaceutical anti- anxiety agents reduce sexual drive, an effect that can last a few days afterwards. We prefer Passion Rx be taken not the same day as these anti anxiety drugs.

Q. With so many supplements on market what could you recommend for anxiety have some social phobia, self confidence problem have had since childhood.
   A. We can't make any specific suggestions on what supplement to use for anxiety, all we can do is refer you to the page on anxiety and to discuss with your doctor the options provided.

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