Benefits of Cymbalta for Anxiety

Since first being made available to the public in 2004, the reasons for Cymbalta being prescribed have increased. However, from the beginning, this medication has been used to treat anxiety, depression, and certain types of pain. Many people find it interesting that the same medication that treats anxiety and depression is also effective for pain. However, because Cymbalta for anxiety and depression are the primary uses, we wanted to provide information to better explain some of the benefits associated with this drug.

Focusing on Anxiety

While Cymbalta has been proven effective for treating various forms of depression, it is at this time more limited when it comes to anxiety. The primary use of Cymbalta for anxiety is a condition known as General Anxiety Disorder or GAD. Keep in mind that anxiety and depression often go hand-in-hand and everyone experiences anxiety at some point in life but GAD is a very specific mental health condition that needs a specific type of treatment.

GAD is a condition that can develop at virtually any age. Unlike normal worry, someone with this illness has symptoms similar to a full-blown panic disorder or even Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). In other words, the symptoms associated with Generalized Anxiety Disorder are intense and usually challenging to treat and control. Unfortunately, without using Cymbalta for anxiety or some other effective treatment, an individual's quality of life would be seriously compromised.

The most common symptoms of GAD are listed below but remember that everyone has a somewhat different reaction. Sometimes, symptoms are mild and infrequent while other times they are intense and long-lasting. Obviously, there are a number of challenges when it comes to GAD but one in particular is that in addition to affecting the person, this illness has a profound impact on family members and friends.

• Bouts of muscle aches, tension, and trembling
• Constant obsession or worry about everything
• Diarrhea
• Excessive fatigue
• Excessive sweating
• Irritable and anxious
• Nausea
• On edge and restless
• Poor or inadequate sleep
• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Trouble with concentration

Constant Obsession and Worry

As mentioned, one of the primary symptoms of GAD involves a person constantly worrying and being obsessed about virtually everything. Using Cymbalta for anxiety of this kind helps to calm a person down whereby things can be put into better perspective. Some examples of the things that trouble a person with Generalized Anxiety Disorder have been listed below:

• Being punctual for appointments
• Getting approval from both peers and superiors
• Natural perils such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, and tornados
• Not being accepted or being judged
• Poor performance in school, at work, or during sporting events

If Cymbalta for anxiety or some other treatment plan is not used, someone with GAD can quickly spiral out of control. When this happens, an individual may turn to drinking or taking illicit drugs to cope, develop physical problems such as an ulcer from continual worrying, and even begin to think about suicide.

Recovering from GAD

There are three main ways that GAD is treated. The first is by using Cymbalta for anxiety or some other type of medication. Depending on the individual and level of intensity, a different drug may be prescribed. This can include anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medication, and for more severe cases, a sedative to ease symptoms of anxiety short-term.

The second method of recovery involves psychotherapy. This entails professional counseling whereby the underlying cause or trigger can be identified and then properly treated. Of all forms of psychotherapy used for anxiety, cognitive/behavioral therapy tends to be the most effective. Remember that even when someone goes through therapy, Cymbalta for anxiety is usually required.

The third method for overcoming the effects of GAD has to do with daily living. While in the grand scheme these may seem relatively insignificant, in truth each of these play a vital role in the overall recovery process.

• Diet - It is imperative to eat well-balanced meals rich in B vitamins and omega 3 fatty acids but also a diet void of processed, fatty, and sugary foods
• Exercise - A minimum of 30 minutes exercise daily is also extremely beneficial for someone with GAD in that it provides an opportunity to burn off negative energy and clear the mind
• Meditation - There are a number of helpful meditation options that reduce symptoms of anxiety such as yoga, visualization, prayer, music, and more
• Lifestyle Choices - At all cost, alcohol, illicit drugs, and unnecessary prescription medication should be avoided
• Sleep - Finally, sleep is critical. During the deepest stage of sleep known as REM (Rapid Eye Movement), the body and mind go through a natural healing and restoration process. For a person with GAD, as well as depression and pain, sleep is vital to recovery.

As shown, there are a number of things a person can do to overcome anxiety but without doubt, a discussion needs to take place with the doctor about using Cymbalta for anxiety symptoms. Of course, there are some side effects and risks associated with this and other similar drugs but a reputable doctor will address all the pros and cons to ensure the best treatment plan is devised.