Many people seek alternatives to Xanax, because they’re worried about its habit-forming nature, which can be a real concern for some people. Xanax is a commonly prescribed psychiatric medication that can be safe and effective when used as directed by a doctor. But does come with a risk of misuse and serious drawbacks that can put your health at risk, which is why some prefer not to prescribe it. Depending on your circumstances, the trade-off might be worth it to manage anxiety symptoms naturally. TCAs like Amitriptyline and Imipramine are older antidepressants that are sometimes used to treat anxiety disorders. They work by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, like SNRIs.
- Getting adequate sleep is extremely important for mental health, but sometimes anxiety makes it hard to fall or stay asleep.
- Our goal at Talkspace is to provide the most up-to-date, valuable, and objective information on mental health-related topics in order to help readers make informed decisions.
- Cutting back or eliminating caffeine can serve as a natural approach to reducing anxiety, making it a lifestyle alternative to medications like Xanax.
- You’ll notice that the majority of these work like Xanax, by increasing the calming brain chemical GABA.
- Beyond supplements and teas, lemon balm is also used in essential oil form for aromatherapy.
- Remember, consistency is more important than intensity when it comes to exercise for anxiety relief.
- Often called the “Indian ginseng,” this adaptogenic herb has been used for over 3,000 years to relieve stress, increase energy levels, and improve concentration.
Natural Alternatives to Xanax
Lastly, remember that every person is unique and may respond differently to alternative treatments. Work with a qualified healthcare practitioner or psychiatrist to determine what’s best for you. Relying on black-market sources for an addictive drug is a slippery slope, and it most certainly won’t lead be a safe and effective long-term solution for treating anxiety disorders.
Use Alprazolam Alternatives Safely
It is crucial to consult a doctor before taking any medication listed below. Treating anxiety by own can worsen the condition and lead to the appearance of unpredictable adverse effects. If a person feels they are becoming dependent on Xanax, they should reach out to an addiction center or their doctor, who can help them make the withdrawal process safe. Xanax is addictive, and if a person thinks they are depending on Xanax to cope with day-to-day life, they should contact an addiction support service for more information and assistance.
Amino Acid Xanax Alternatives
Both have the potential for dependence and addiction with long-term higher doses. Passionflower can have positive effects on symptoms of anxiety, and several studies suggest it may be a promising alternative to prescription drugs. One study found that people who took an herbal extract containing passionflower saw significantly reduced symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). One therapy modality that has been shown to be especially effective in treating anxiety disorders is cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT. CBT works by helping you identify, understand, and stop negative thought cycles.
But beyond its aromatic allure, lemon balm has a longstanding reputation in herbal medicine. Xanax, also known as alprazolam, has undoubtedly provided relief to countless individuals who best alternative to xanax struggle with anxiety. It also has the potential for dependency, which prompts many to seek more natural solutions. However, while effective, Xanax comes with its own set of side effects. From sudden bouts of panic to prolonged periods of unease, anxiety affects millions worldwide.
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- Numerous studies have delved into Valerian’s effectiveness for anxiety.
- Xanax is not appropriate for children or teens and should not be prescribed to teens since they commonly abuse this drug.
- Deep breathing also lowers levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone in the body, which then leads to reduced anxiety (64).
- Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric disorder in the world, affecting 40 million adults in the United States.
- In a society increasingly leaning towards organic, chemical-free, and holistic approaches to well-being, interest in natural Xanax alternatives is both understandable and timely.
- However, in the majority of people, side effects are mild and disappear after the first few days, and the treatment benefits outweigh the issues.
- Individuals taking theanine experience a reduction in heart rate and salivary immunoglobulin A, both of which typically spike during stress (40-41).
Valerian contains numerous phytochemicals, notably the eponymous sesquiterpenoid valerenic acid and its natural derivatives (e.g. acetoxy valerenic acid and hydroxy valerenic acid). Valerian root ostensibly mitigates anxiety and improves sleep by enhancing GABA interaction with GABA-A receptors. By reducing REM sleep duration and frequency, Xanax may help users get more deep sleep. Since Xanax targets GABAergic transmission exclusively, natural ingredients with similar pharmacology can also induce relaxation, improve sleep, and foster feelings of well-being. Withdrawal symptoms are different for everyone, but Xanax withdrawal may include headaches, blurred vision, tremors, sweating, anxiety, panic, loss of appetite, and insomnia.
In one study, participants were given either l-theanine or Xanax and subjected to artificially induced stress. Taurine is considered very safe and, in fact, naturally occurs in high concentrations in the brain. You’ll notice that the majority of these work like Xanax, by increasing the calming brain chemical GABA.
So it’s easier for you to be mentally sharper, positive, and more productive. A person should talk to their doctor if they still cannot sleep after making changes to their sleep routine. A doctor may be able to suggest CBT or an alternative medication over Xanax. A person should talk to their doctor before taking an over-the-counter sleep aid or allergy medication to help them fall asleep. They should also avoid taking more than one product that contains any type of sedative.
