Natural Relief for Anxiety: Understanding & Effective Strategies

General anxiety disorder (GAD) involves intense and exaggerated feelings of worry and anxiety that become uncontrollable and disrupt everyday life. Natural and effective treatments are available through self-help techniques, support groups and lifestyle changes.

Symptoms

• Physical and emotional symptoms are both evident in GAD. These include excessive worrying, irritability, feeling on edge, muscle aches, fatigue, twitching and difficulty concentrating and sleeping.

Self-help techniques

• Strategies to control anxiety include learning to relax, retraining your brain to avoid negative thoughts, maintaining a positive attitude through improved emotional intelligence and taking good care of yourself.

Support groups

• Traditional treatment is centered on medication and psychotherapy, but self-help and support groups provide a network of people who can share stress management and coping skills. Sharing your concerns with others can relieve stress and anxiety.

Homeopathic treatment

• Natural herbal and vitamin supplements can also alleviate anxiety. Kava is a relaxant, while valerian works as a natural sedative. Vitamin B with folic acid is said to stimulate production of neurotransmitters in the brain, which may help diminish anxiety.

Lifestyle changes

• People who suffer from GAD should avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can make anxiety worse. Exercise and a healthy diet can combine to improve overall health and provide a brighter outlook on life. Meditation techniques and yoga can also be beneficial in reducing anxiety.