Beta-blockers prevent the stress hormone adrenaline (epinephrine) from contacting the beta receptors in the heart, which prevent the heart from pumping harder or faster. This helps to decrease the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as a fast heart rate, a shaky voice, or hands, sweating, and dizziness. Like any medication, beta-blockers may cause side effects like fatigue, dizziness, and low blood pressure.
The combination of fresh air, sunlight, and physical movement is a potent recipe for reducing anxiety and boosting overall well-being. So the next time you’re feeling down, take a walk at the beach or run in the woods and discover nature’s way of calming the mind and soothing the soul. Similarly, journaling offers a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings, serving as a therapeutic tool to explore emotions, reflect on experiences, and track progress over time.
What Is Xanax?
GABA is an amino acid and also a neurotransmitter responsible for relaxing and calming your nervous system. If your treatment plan includes medication, your psychiatrist will prescribe and manage it. If needed, your psychiatrist can also refer you to a Talkiatry therapist. The information in this article is for education and informational purposes only and should never be substituted for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
There are many forms of magnesium supplements to pick from, but most barely enter the brain, where the magnesium is needed to impact anxiety. Low levels of vitamin C have been linked to both anxiety and depression. Vegetarians, seniors, and those who use acid-suppressing drugs are most at risk for B12 deficiency. Vitamin B6 is an essential cofactor required for the synthesis of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine — three neurotransmitters that have a strong impact on mood. Many people experience significantly fewer anxiety symptoms when taking a B alprazolam natural alternatives complex supplement.
Learn About Amino Acids
- Learn how genetic testing and pharmacogenomics are helping psychiatrists personalize care by identifying genetic syndromes and optimizing medication plans.
- Neuroimaging studies have shown that consistent meditation can lead to changes in the structure and function of the brain.
- Over time, the body can build a tolerance to Xanax, meaning that higher doses may be required to achieve the same therapeutic effects.
- Many people experience significantly fewer anxiety symptoms when taking a B complex supplement.
- Psychobiotics are probiotics that offer specific mental health benefits, including alleviating anxiety.
A study published in 2022 compared meditation and the antidepressant Lexapro for anxiety and found that the two were equally effective at managing symptoms. The researchers say that meditation works because it combines breathwork with an emphasis on staying present—so you’re not dwelling in worries about the past or the future. Getting adequate sleep is extremely important for mental health, but sometimes anxiety makes it hard to fall or stay asleep.
We’ll also explore the power and benefits of psychotherapy and the holistic options that provide avenues for anxiety relief. By unveiling these alternatives, we hope to empower those seeking relief to examine a variety of paths toward managing anxiety and regaining control over their lives. These medications work similarly to Xanax by enhancing GABA activity in the brain, which helps promote relaxation and reduce anxiety symptoms.
There are several over-the-counter (OTC) options that can help alleviate anxiety symptoms. Supplements and herbal remedies can be appealing to those seeking fast relief without the need for a prescription. OTCs are easily accessible and readily available in most areas or by ordering online.
- There are other safe options for managing anxiety that may work better for you.
- However, it’s important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another.
- Please explore more about them on our services overview page, including IV + NAD, nebulized glutathione, art therapy, neurotransmitter rehabilitation, and many others.
- Physical dependency can occur rapidly, making it challenging to stop without professional help.
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Numerous studies have evaluated CBT’s impact on conditions ranging from mental and physical disorders to behavioral problems. Research suggests that CBT can be effective for conditions like anxiety, depression, and many other mental health concerns 8. While no supplement or natural remedy works as quickly or strongly as Xanax, certain compounds have calming effects that can support the brain and body through withdrawal and anxiety recovery. Nootropic supplements — commonly referred to as “smart drugs” — can improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety. Some studies say they work by enhancing brain health and neurotransmitter function.
The Benefits of Natural Alternatives to Xanax
Neurotoxins and toxins collect in our bodies throughout our lifetimes, typically producing the effect of an overstimulated nervous system. These toxins include heavy metals, aspartame, mycotoxins from mold, and thousands of other chemicals present in processed food, hygiene products, and cleaning products. A demanding workplace, a failing marriage, and other stress, when added to internal toxicity, can be too much. Toxins can substantially affect the endocrine system and lead to hormonal imbalance, adrenal burnout, and cortisol elevation.
When it comes to managing anxiety, it’s important to note that benzodiazepines are not the only option. While they can be prescribed for anxiety, it’s crucial to consider their negative effects that can occur in the long term. While Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, and Valium are some examples benzodiazepines, your doctor may not prescribe any of them, preferring antidepressants medications instead. Antidepressants are effective, have lower risk of side effects, and the primary choice among psychiatrists to help treat anxiety. Xanax works by binding to specific receptors in the brain that are sensitive to GABA and enhancing GABA’s effect on them.
Natural Alternatives to Xanax (in-depth guide)
If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your physician or dial 911. Strong arguments abound for avoiding benzodiazepines, and SSRIs have good reasons to be the go-to drug class for most cases of anxiety. However, there is a chance you may not like either, and an SNRI antidepressant/anti-anxiety drug like Cymbalta could be preferable. SNRIs avoid the controlled substance designation and provide a long-acting steady state of relief. A lower risk than most SSRIs of sexual dysfunction and weight gain could be appealing, too.
Practice mindfulness and meditation
By boosting the production of endorphins and serotonin, exercise is known to improve mood, ease tension, and reduce irritability. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are effective and natural ways to manage anxiety. These coping mechanisms can teach people effective stress management techniques, potentially minimizing the need for prolonged medication use. The practices below may effectively provide lasting support for mental and physical well-being. This non-sedative effect makes L-theanine a gentler alternative to medications like Xanax which may cause sleepiness and dependency.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
In summary, natural alternatives offer a multifaceted approach to handling anxiety and stress. Its ability to alleviate anxiety and stress is backed by a wealth of scientific evidence, and it’s an attractive natural alternative to medications like Xanax. Lastly, a balanced gut can more efficiently absorb essential nutrients, including those vital for brain function and mental health, such as B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids (58). Theanine has gained attention for its calming and cognitive-enhancing properties. As a result, it’s a compelling natural option for those seeking relief from stress and anxiety.