Anxiety

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Feeling anxious is a natural response to stress, but becomes a medical disorder when it's excessive, chronic, and interferes with daily life. 

Anxiety disorders affect around 14% of adult Australians, approximately 2.3 million people.

Anxiety can manifest in different forms, such as generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. 

Anxiety disorders are characterised by intense, prolonged worry and fear about everyday situations.

The causes of anxiety are many, including:

• Genetics
• Brain chemistry
• Personality
• Life experiences, particularly traumatic ones
• Environmental factors such as stress from work or relationships

Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include:

• Feeling nervous or tense
• Increased heart rate
• Hyperventilation (rapid breathing)
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Feeling weak or fatigued
• Trouble concentrating
• Insomnia
• Avoidance of situations that may trigger anxiety

• Benzodiazepines: Diazepam (Valium), Alprazolam (Xanax)
• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Sertraline (Zoloft), Escitalopram (Lexapro), Paroxetine (Aropax)
• Serotonin-Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): Venlafaxine (Efexor), Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

• Benzodiazepines: Drowsiness, confusion, addiction potential
• SSRIs: Nausea, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, insomnia
• SNRIs: Dry mouth, dizziness, excessive sweating, loss of appetite

An estimated 284 million people worldwide have anxiety disorders. 

In Australia, anxiety disorders affect around 14% of the adult population, or approximately 2.3 million people.

• Food as Medicine - Eating a wholefood, high fibre diet with plenty of healthy fats and colourful fruits and vegetables can help to manage anxiety
• Mindfulness and Meditation - Cultivating presence and awareness can reduce anxiety.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can have a calming effect on the mind.
• Herbal and Nutritional Medicines: Some studies suggest herbs like kava and lavender, and nutritional supplements such as magnesium and B vitamins may be effective, but caution is advised, and consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.

De-prescribing for anxiety focuses on reducing dependence on medications, while enhancing coping strategies.

• Medication Withdrawal Programs: Gradual tapering under professional guidance
• Integrative Medicine Approaches: Holistic approaches that include talking therapy, dietary and lifestyle changes, and mindfulness can support medication reduction.

Managing de-prescribing of anxiety disorders require a comprehensive approach, considering both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments. Collaboration with healthcare providers specializing in anxiety disorders and a focus on patient-centred care are vital for successful treatment and recovery.