clarity clinic

The Best Advice You Could Ever Get About Over The Counter Anxiety Medication

September 6th, 2024

blog

It’s no secret that anxiety and anxiety symptoms can cause major problems in your everyday life. Symptoms such as rapid heart rate, heavy sweating, insomnia, and restlessness can be difficult to deal with on a daily basis. To manage anxiety symptoms, many turn to anti-anxiety medications, which are particularly effective for those with severe anxiety disorders.

However, anxiety medications require a prescription from a physician, there is no such thing as over-the-counter anxiety medications, as these types of meds alter brain function and are controlled substances.

While there are no over-the-counter medications specifically for anxiety, there are non-prescription options available that may help alleviate some symptoms of anxiety and stress. These alternatives, though not as potent as prescription medications, can offer relief for milder symptoms and are readily accessible.

Over The Counter Anxiety Medications

  • Magnesium For Anxiety: Anxiety can be exacerbated by a lack of important nutrients. Anxiety causes the body to remain in a tense state, causing us to experience things like muscle tension. Magnesium supplements have been proven to reduce anxiety because of their nervous system relaxant effects. Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxer so it may decrease the experience of restlessness or irritability. This may provide you with some relief, even if it doesn't relieve you of your anxiety symptoms altogether.
  • Herbal supplements For Anxiety: Some herbal supplements have been found to be effective against anxiety symptoms. Herbal supplements like passionflower, chamomile, and kava have been shown to be helpful. The use of lavender in aromatherapy has also been shown to reduce anxiety. Aromatherapy is a holistic healing treatment that uses natural plant extracts to promote health and well-being. It is important to use caution when using these herbal supplements and should consult your doctor if you are considering using these products.
  • Melatonin: Insomnia, trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, is a common symptom of anxiety. Melatonin is a hormone created by the pineal gland that helps your body know when it’s time to sleep and wake up. At night, the body creates more melatonin to assist with sleeping and levels drop when the sun rises. Taking melatonin may increase your sleep, diminishing another anxiety symptoms.
  • 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP): 5-HTP is a supplement known to increase serotonin levels. Serotonin is used to regulate mood, appetite, and other important functions. Studies have shown that by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, they should be able to decrease anxiety symptoms. 5-HTP is not found in foods and would have to be taken as a supplement. There can be side effects to taking these supplements, so please consult your doctor before including them in your diet.

Anxiety Treatment

While taking medication for anxiety or over the counter options like the ones mentioned above, can be helpful in decreasing or eliminating anxiety symptoms, it is not a cure. Medication is not a cure-all for anxiety; it's designed to alleviate symptoms rather than address the underlying causes.

To truly tackle anxiety, a comprehensive approach is necessary—one that includes insight, self-reflection, and the development of coping skills. This helps to uncover the triggers of your anxiety and transform your thought patterns and reactions.

While medication can be highly effective, particularly for severe anxiety symptoms, it's important to remember that it's part of a broader strategy. Combining the best anxiety medication for you with tailored therapeutic practices often leads to the best long-term outcomes.


Anxiety Therapist In Chicago

At Clarity Clinic, we pride ourselves on offering some of the most effective anxiety treatment available in Chicago. Our approach to anxiety disorders is comprehensive, integrating the latest research with personalized care to help each patient navigate their unique challenges.

Our team of highly skilled anxiety therapists and psychiatrists brings years of experience and specialized training in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Whether you're dealing with generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic attacks, or any other form of anxiety, our professionals are equipped with the expertise to help.

We understand that anxiety manifests differently in each person. That's why we create tailored treatment plans for each client, combining evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and medication management when necessary. This personalized approach ensures that you receive the most effective treatment for your specific symptoms.

Our mental health clinics are located in the Loop, River North, Broadway Lakeview, Belmont Lakeview, Evanston, and Arlington Heights, making them easy for you to access whether you're coming from work, home, or school. We also offer flexible scheduling, including online therapy sessions, to accommodate your busy lifestyle and ensure that getting help is as convenient as possible.

We are committed to helping you achieve lasting change and a more peaceful, fulfilling life. Book a consultation today!

Anxiety Treatment

Related Readings:

Related Blog Posts

blog
Using Gabapentin For Anxiety
July 22, 2024
blog
What is Anxiety? A Guide to Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
July 09, 2024
blog
Panic Attack vs Anxiety Attack: What’s the Difference?
June 17, 2024
Find a provider
clarity clinic
© 2024 Clarity Clinic. All Rights Reserved.Privacy Policy