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Answer by Curtis D
Have a look at this site:

www.panicattackrelief.com

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Anxiety symptoms are likely to occur in such experiences and even trigger an episode. A person might show signs of anxiety including; jitteriness, perspiration, trembling and poor communication. Behaviors and habits that progress into social anxiety disorder are often developed from childhood experiences. Seemingly harmless to people who don’t suffer this disorder, for sufferers it can have huge negative effct on their lives.

Many feel limited with both happiness and opportunities. Lack of self-esteem and assertiveness, being overly selfconsciousness and constant worry of what others think; these behaviors stop a person from achieving success in life. It’s quite common for children to fall short at school and to maintain low expectations as they grow up. Growing up into adults they might let opportunities slip by.

Diagnosed cases of social anxiety disorder are either treated with medication or therapy, or a combination of both. Aside from these two options however there self help methods in reducing anxiety and coping with panic attacks. Frequent feelings of uneasiness and dread trigger anxiety symptoms. When a person with social anxiety steps into a room full of strangers they begin having worrying thoughts about being nervous and looking nervous. They are likely to feel cornered and a need to escape.

Social anxiety often spirals out of control from a single thought of worry which then trigger sensations and more worry. Learning to stop these thoughts can take time but essentially to get over social anxiety a person needs to recondition them. One way to do this is through self guided imagery and positive affirmations. Also by pushing your boundaries day by day you can gradually become more comfortable to situations that you fear.

Develop your confidence by reading lots of self help and motivational books. Confidence is a habit that can be learnt. Direct your attention to others needs instead of your own. Observe others and realize that you’re not being watched and learn to be comfortable in your own skin. Try and meet with friends more often and communicate with people more at work. Think of something that’s interested you and go out and do it.  

Stop yourself from thoughts of worry and self-criticism. Breathing and meditation exercises help in calming the body and mind and reducing stress. When you feel anxious in any particular situation, begin to breathe deeply and count to ten. Reducing anxiety and controlling panic attacks through breathing can be surprisingly effective.

EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) is a meridian therapy which many people have claimed effectiveness in controlling panic attacks as well as other health problems. This simple technique works by unblocking energy flow in the body and implementing positive thoughts into the mind. This is done by tapping on acupuncture points on the body. Social anxiety is a challenging disorder to overcome but by gradually chipping at the wall, you can break down any barrier in your life.

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese healing art that involves the stimulation of the acupuncture points located in the meridian pathways where the body’s vital energy flows. These acupuncture points are associated with the vital organ systems of the body.

Earlier reports from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) stated that acupuncture shows efficiency in treating post-traumatic stress disorder, which was then echoed by the results of a randomized controlled study conducted by a team at the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Kentucky.

The University of Louisville School of Medicine team, headed by Dr. Michael Hollifield concluded that acupuncture treatments actually displayed the same results as that of a cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that is common in an environment that poses physical threats to the well being such as that in tragedies, disasters, war zones, violent assaults, and military combat, among others.

In fact, the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington now requires acupuncture treatments for soldiers with mental and physical trauma. The US Air Force operates the sole acupuncture clinic in the military at the Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland where 44 Air Force, Army doctors and Navy are undergoing acupuncture trainings for emergency care in war zone hospitals in Iraq and Afghanistan.

But how exactly can acupuncture deliver beneficial results in treating post-traumatic stress disorder?

To combat post-traumatic stress disorder, acupuncture rejuvenates the acupuncture points that are associated with the brain where the emotional memories of the patient are stored thereby aiding the patient to naturally heal from the trauma.

Acupuncture has been proven as a gentle treatment that stimulates the emotions of the patient and works through the trauma without causing panic or unpleasant flashbacks on the patient. The ear acupuncture, otherwise known as auricular acupuncture is the commonly used form of acupuncture in treating post-traumatic stress disorder as it helps balance the Qi and helps the mind relax.

Studies have clearly shown that post-traumatic stress disorder acupuncture treatment is more effective when complemented with other treatment such as talk therapy, meditation, yoga, journal writing, and art therapy among others.

The acupuncture treatment helps the patient to start processing the trauma in a more relaxed and balanced state, while the other treatments will serve as support system that will provide the patient an outlet for working through the trauma and be free from the disorder for the rest of their lives.

So the long and short of it is, I’m sick of taking medicines like effexor, paxil and zoloft… I just can’t stomach trying more. So I’ve turned my sites on natural therapy.

Is there anything that truly works for anyone out there? I mean really works… not “well natural prescription for wellness encyclopedia says….”

I’ve tried 5 HTP, took up yoga for about 2 years, took St Johns Wort for about 2 months, took extra B vitamins and took up tai chi. I’ve been to therapists and normal doctors.

I’m looking into homeopathy and bach flower remedies and am a bit overwhelmed. I wish I could try acupuncture, but I’m out of work because of this and can’t really afford it.

Eating disorders are often caused by serious traumatic experiences we have buried in our past. These could include sexual abuse, physical abuse, or a near death experience. The disorder cuts even deeper when consistently supported by cultural and environmental contributors such as growing up with families or friends who were overcritical about physical appearances. An eating disorder treatment center does more than help you change your diet or habits. It gets to the root of the problem-the underlying trauma as well as the unhealthy social images you’ve grown to contend with.

An anorexia treatment center goes farther than mere nutrition, but also includes meditative, spiritual aspects. Programs go beyond just a healthy eating program, but include art expression, spiritual exploration, acupuncture and social therapies. The program is all inclusive, getting to the crux of the problem that rests at the base of each symptom.

Likewise, bulimia treatment supports and treats the entire individual. This is not a blame game. The center recognizes the serious emotional effects living with this disorder can have. Programs focus on returning the balance, bringing in a holistic approach that focuses not just on the actual diet but actually finding happiness and fulfillment. 90 % of all eating disorders are caused by depression. When you find new energy in yourself, new reasons to live and new ways to enjoy living, you return yourself to a higher plane, the disorder melting away into a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

Treatment programs focus on healing of the mind as well as the soul. Contending with an eating disorder is not about will power. You already have the will to live, otherwise you wouldn’t be here. Treatment centers instead get to the root of the emotional problem so you can live well, happy and inspired by the very life that surrounds you. Treat the whole of the problem through an introspective program of art, pet, recreational, and meditative therapies. Healing the whole is the only way to completely weed out the root of the disorder and return the body, mind and soul to their natural healthy balances.

Casa Palmera is one such treatment center that focuses on the holistic health of the individual. More information can be found by emailing info@casapalmera.com or calling 888.481.4481.

First, though, you need to be aware of the following: you need to get a proper diagnosis from your doctor. If you’ve been suffering with the symptoms of anxiety for a short time, they could be the signs of some other condition. If you’ve been suffering alone for 6 months or more then it’s likely that you have general anxiety disorder. In either case you MUST seek professional advice.

WHAT IS GENERAL ANXIETY DISORDER?

GAD sufferers have unrelenting worry and anxiety. Everybody worries about things everyday, but GAD victims take it to another level completely. Everyday things, issues and events, that most folks handle without obsessively worrying about them, become major issues for someone with general anxiety disorder. They constantly worry about things, the seriousness of which is way out of proportion to their reaction to them.

This constant state of anxiety becomes so severe that it can seriously affect some sufferers’ ability to function on a daily basis. Social gatherings and the workplace, for example, become very difficult for them to cope with. Others (the majority) seem to be able to cope in the main, but, they still suffer severe anxiety whilst doing it, so that it can affect their work and relationships.

SYMPTOMS OF GENERAL ANXIETY DISORDER

Not every sufferer exhibits the same symptoms, but typical of the range of general anxiety disorder symptoms are; poor concentration, irritability, sleeping difficulties, inability to shake off anxious thoughts, fear of rejection, fear of losing control / composure, inability to relax, etc.

There are also physical symptoms of GAD which include stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea, tense / aching muscles, almost constant fatigue, having the jitters, restlessness, etc.

TREATMENT FOR GENERAL ANXIETY DISORDER USING DRUGS

Your doctor will most probably prescribe anti-anxiety drugs or antidepressants to control the psychological symptoms and perhaps beta blockers to control the physical symptoms.

Antidepressants are used to influence neurotransmitters in the brain which play a role in GAD. Examples of the drugs are Prozac, Zoloft, Tofranil and Lexapro.

Anti-anxiety drugs such as benzodiazapines are generally only used for short term symptom relief since they have some severe side effects like poor muscle coordination, drowsiness, memory problems and balance / steadiness problems. They can also be habit-forming. Typical are Valium, Ativan, Librium and Xanax.

Buspirone (BuSpar) doesn’t have the serious side effects of benzodiazapines such as tolerance and dependency. It’s therefore used in chronic anxiety sufferers and those who already have had the course of benzodiazapines but have relapsed.

Because drugs are more of a short-term treatment to relieve the symptoms of GAD and because of their side effects, more people are seeking natural ways to treat their general anxiety disorder. Another reason is that drugs can help manage your ‘mood’, but they can’t ‘cure’ the underlying problem that helps perpetuate your anxiety and that is your ‘fear’.

ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT FOR GENERAL ANXIETY DISORDER

One of the most effective, if not the most effective, is cognitive-behavioral therapy (GBT) where you work together with a trained therapist to change your thought (cognitive) and behavior patterns in order to break the link between your feelings and the symptoms of GAD.

There are also several other non-drug therapies such as self-hypnosis, counselling, meditation and even acupuncture has been used to good effect.

Biofeedback uses electronic equipment to measure and display back to you, your physiological activity. By doing whatever it takes to improve your displayed physiological activity, you are learning how to relax and lower tension and stress. You expand your awareness and increase control of your body.

SELF-HELP TREATMENT FOR GENERAL ANXIETY DISORDER

In terms of self-help there are things like regular exercise, a healthy diet, more adequate sleep, cutting out large consumption of alcohol and caffeine, etc. These are just some of the lifestyle changes that can prove effective. There are also self-help techniques to eliminate your fear of anxiety and panic attacks.

John Cielo researches and writes on treatment for general anxiety disorder. To discover the simple ONE MOVE technique that will eliminate your fear factor and so break your vicious cycle of anxiety at last, go here now http://eliminatepanicattacks.blogspot.com and prepare to get your old self back again.

Anxiety can be accompanied by headache, sweating, palpitations, and hypertension. Many types of anxiety disorder some types including general anxiety disorder. Generalized anxiety disorder is a common chronic disorder and its affects twice as many women as men .People with this disorder feel afraid of something but are unable to articulate the specific fear. They fret constantly and have a hard time controlling their worries. Other types of panic disorder. In panic disorder, a person suffers brief attacks of intense terror and apprehension that cause trembling and shaking, confusion, dizziness, nausea, difficulty breathing, and feelings of impending doom or a situation that would be embarrassing. Another types of anxiety disorder is phobias.

Phobias are divided into two categories: social phobia, which involves fear of social situations, and specific phobias, such as fear of flying, blood and heights. Social Phobia is also form of anxiety disorder. People with social phobia feel a paralysing, irrational self-consciousness about social situations. They have an intense fear of being observed or of doing something horribly wrong in front of other people. Post-traumatic stress disorder is an anxiety disorder which results from a traumatic experience. Post-traumatic stress can result from an extreme situation, such as being involved in warfare, rape, hostage situations, or involvement in a serious accident. It can also result from long term (chronic) exposure to a severe stressor. Separation Anxiety Disorder is the feeling of excessive.

Treatment can offer stupendous relief, often in a relatively short amount of time. Most anxiety disorders are treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication, or a combination of the two. Cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) is very effective in the treatment of anxiety disorders. CBT will help you identify and challenge the negative and irrational beliefs that are holding you back from working through your fears. Cognitive-behavior therapy for anxiety usually takes between 12 and 20 weeks. CBT is conducted both in individual therapy and in groups of people with similar anxiety problems. Relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, controlled breathing, and guided imagery may reduce anxiety. Acupuncture may help reduce anxiety.

Anxiety Disorder Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. Antidepressants drugs is also recommend.

2. Biofeedback to control muscle tension.

3. Cognitive behavioral therapy is also helpful in anxiety disorder.

4. Relaxation techniques is very effective in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

5. Benzodiazepines (such as Xanax) is also useful against anxiety disorder.

Knowing the symptoms of anxiety disorder and its various cures are absolutely essential if you wish to be of any assistance to yourself or to a friend or family member. You can prepare yourself well to deal with anxiety disorders by learning about their various symptoms and the ways to treat them.

You can find information about anxiety disorders and their cures at a variety of sources. A number of books provide valuable information and tips for people who are trying to manage and control their anxiety disorders. Alternatively, you could get the required information from psychologists and therapists, who are, after all, trained to be of help to you in such cases.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder

The symptoms of anxiety disorders can be classified into physical and mental.

Mental symptoms include fear, nervousness, self-consciousness, worry, and restlessness. People having an anxiety disorder usually shun the company of others.

Physical symptoms include hot or cold flashes, copious sweating, sleeping disorders, palpitations, and sweaty palms.

The above-mentioned symptoms indicate an anxiety disorder of some form or the other.

Curing an Anxiety Disorder

A person who suffers from an anxiety disorder must take the help of a medical practitioner or a therapist.

First, a medical doctor will ascertain the presence or absence of an anxiety disorder. After ascertaining that your symptoms are not due to any other medical disorder of a physical nature, your medical practitioner might diagnose your case as an anxiety disorder.

After your condition has been properly diagnosed, you can take a combination of therapy and medication or simply therapy. You can also choose to try one of the alternative methods to cure your anxiety disorder. Alternative methods include acupuncture, hypnotherapy, herbal treatments, and various techniques of relaxation. If you want to treat your anxiety disorder with an alternative method, visit a professional who is qualified and certified to treat people with the particular alternative method you have chosen.

A cure that has worked for someone else need not possibly work for you. After a few failures with methods that might not work for you and a lot of research, you will find the best method for you. However, don’t ignore an anxiety disorder. Just do something about it.

* Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
* Obsessive and Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
* Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
* Phobias
* Social Disorders

Out of all these, the commonest occurrence is of GAD. OCD is mostly of a genetic origin while PTSD is the effect of one’s past trauma. Phobias are more difficult to generalize so far as causes are concerned as their causes are more diffuse.

A great deal of research and scientific studies are going on to unveil the secrets of the human mind. The Diagnostic and Statistic Manual IV (DSM IV) and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD 10) have done a great deal of work in setting guidelines for the diagnosis of these ailments. The Diagnostic and Statistic Manual IV (DSM IV) and the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD 10) are responsible for setting the guidelines for the diagnosis of human mind related disorders.

Anxiety disorders truly disorder life. They increase pessimism in the patient and it becomes difficult for him to think or act positively. The overall symptoms of the disease enervate and tire the patient.

The psychotherapist in your locality is the person to go to if you think you need Anxiety disorder help. Sometimes, all anxiety disorder patients need is a good listener to cure them – something what psychotherapists most certainly are. Even a few sessions may prove helpful. Another trick the psychotherapist can suggest is Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which aims to improve thought analysis and will power in the patient. CBT occurs in two sub-parts – the patient becomes aware of his thought process and secondly, he tries to control the way his body reacts to his panic. CBT is one of the most important therapies used in treating panic disorder patients.

At times CBT is not used alone, but along with biofeedback technique. Biofeedback means attaching several small portable instruments to the patient’s body which measure body variables like heartbeat, blood pressure, body temperature and sweat gland activity. As the patient’s panic mounts, he observes how his heartbeat increases and his blood pressure rises. This creates an indelible impression on his mind and eggs him to try and control these reactions by controlling his thoughts. At times, the biofeedback technique is used in combination with CBT. In this, the patient’s heartbeat, blood pressure, body temperature and sweat gland activity are constantly measured by attaching to his body small machines for doing so. So now as the patient goes into a panic attack, he can see for himself how his body functions touch abnormality. Seeing this repeatedly makes the patient realize how important it is to control his panic-stricken thoughts.

It is also possible to get anxiety disorder help by making some changes in the way one lives life. For example:

* Controlling food intake – reduction in the intake of caffeine containing food, like chocolates, tea, coffee, soft drinks etc helps curb anxiety attacks

*Relaxation & Exercise – The antithesis to anxiety is relaxation. Several techniques for the same are available, some of which are -

# Deep Sleep – it is the best mode of relaxation, and relaxation is in itself the best treatment for anxiety disorder. Some poet has correctly called sleep as ‘Tired Nature’s Sweet Restorer’ which it is.

# Long hot baths, steam baths, spa treatments – water has the power to flush away negativity.

# Massage – the stress and anxiety can be kneaded out of your system by trained massage specialists. To help them, a huge variety of aromatic and ayurvedic oils can be bought from the market. Also popular are Chinese systems of special massages Acupressure and Acupuncture; these are also helpful in relaxing your mind and body.

# Yoga and Thai Chi are those physical exercises which have been employed in the treatment of anxiety.
Anxiety attack medications are usually used in addition with some other therapeutic method instead of being used singly. This is so because anxiety is a psychotic disorder with the mind being the worst affected and hence a behavioural therapy must form part of the treatment. Also, drugs usually prescribed as Anxiety attack medications are downed by having side-effects. They may also make the patient get addicted to them, some can get abused by the takers also and some also cause withdrawal symptoms.

The major classes under which anxiety attack medications fall are:

* Benzodiazepines – alprazolam, clonzepam, diazepam
* Buspirone
* Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) – paroxetine, sertraline, fluvoxamine
* Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) – Venlafaxine, Tramadol
* Tricyclic Antidepressants – Amitriptyline, Trimipramine

Many of these drug classes are tranquilizers or sedatives while SSRIs and SNRIs function by changing the level of two brain chemicals – norepinephrine and serotonin the hormone of happiness.

Usually most of the panic disorder patients make up their mind that this disease is solely a mental problem and the attacks are not only severe but interestingly unexpected occurrences which occur without certain cause. As mental diseases are linked with a social taboo many panic attack sufferers keep concealing their conditions to avoid seer “embarrassment.” Effective panic attack cures are available today hence such misconceptions must be suppressed.

The first and foremost cure for this problem is to make friends with a trained, trustworthy psychotherapist. The psychotherapist is trained to listen to the patient and to alleviate his anxieties at the basic level. His duty is also to lead the patient on the path of self-medication. Panic attacks may well be treated by the patient’s strong will power. It is required on the patient’s part to analyze deeply the root of his panicky thoughts. He makes a positive effort to control his illogical thoughts. There are certain statements he is taught to use during his attacks, which he is supposed to chant. These statements serve to control his symptoms psychologically. This has been termed as Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy or CBT, as the patient takes cognizance of his inner self and modifies his behaviour accordingly.

Exposure therapy is another best option of panic attack cures. Some patients can be the victim of Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic incident in past keep haunting them through reoccurrence of such scary symptom that take the shape of panic attacks. Patients are deliberately exposed before those phobias which they consider the cause of their panic attacks. This all is done under certain vigilant atmosphere. This therapy is helpful for the patients to come out of that fear psychosis.

Another alternative medicine for panic disorder named biofeedback is wonderful option. The body of sufferer is connected to portable machines while this technique is applied in curing anxiety disorder. These tiny machines keep measuring proven aspects of body such as level of blood pressure, heartbeat, sweat gland activity and skin temperature to assess panic situation. Such parameters usually have drastic change once the panic attack turn severe and patient feels uneasy. Doctors correlate panicky thoughts and the physiological situations in such cases which have strong relationship and create more trouble for the patients. This unique technique is used to measure the cognizance that keeps the physiological aspects under control hence provide opportunity for better cure. This is primary reason that biofeedback is today considered wonderful technique used with Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy.

Chemicals considered as medicines for panic disorder are easily available in market. Benzodiazepine and Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) groups of drugs are most popular amongst them all. They are psychotropic medicines best used as sedatives and antidepressant categories.

Used in short-term treatments Benzodiazepines are though habit forming drugs that have quicker response too. There is a possibility of these drugs be misused. The medicines of Benzodiazepine group are as follows:
•    Diazepam (Valium)
•    Lorazepam (Ativan)
•    Alprazolam
•    Oxazepam
•    Temazepam
•    Nitrazepam
•    Flurazepam
•    Loprazolam
•    Lormetazepam
•    Clobazam
•    Clonazepam.
•    Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)

SSRIs typically take a long period of titration to adjust its pharmacological levels in the body and as such need an adaptation phase. They may also cause serious side effects such as reduction in sexual libido and gastrointestinal discomfiture. Some SSRIs used as medicines for panic disorder are:
•    Citalopram (Celexa, Cipramil)
•    Escitalopram (Lexapro, Cipralex, Esertia)
•    Fluoxetine (Prozac)
•    Fluvoxamine (Luvox, Fevarin, Faverin)

Apart from the panic attack cures mentioned above, several other alternative therapies are available. Relaxation and sleep are the best counteracting vehicles against anxiety. Deep breathing exercises, Yoga and Thai Chi help relax the mind and the body. Massages, spa treatments, acupressure and acupuncture also help in kneading the stress out of the body. Long hot baths help, too and so do laughter and music therapies which remove the negativity from the system.

Usually, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other newer antidepressants are tried first, but older antidepressants — tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) — also may be used with success.
ANTIANXIETY MEDICATIONS: Antianxiety medications include the benzodiazepines and Buspar (buspirone). Antianxiety medications may be prescribed on their own or along with other medications, such as antidepressants.

Some doctors will prescribe a benzodiazepine temporarily with an antidepressant because the benzodiazepine will decrease the anxiety and panic symptoms rapidly while the antidepressant may take several weeks to take effect. Additionally, the benzodiazepine may help with any increased anxiety that may be a side effect of the antidepressant. Other doctors will prescribe these medications for longer periods.

2. OTHER MEDICATIONS:
Researchers and doctors have found a few other categories to help in the treatment of panic disorder. These medications may not have been specifically approved by the (FDA) for the treatment of panic disorder, but doctors may prescribe them “off label.” Other medications prescribed to treat panic disorder include beta blockers, anticonvulsants, atypical antipsychotic, and antihistamines.

3. THERAPY:
The therapy most recommended in the treatment of panic disorder is cognitive-behavioral therapy or CBT, a form of psychotherapy. A couple of recent studies have shown CBT alone to be as effective in treating panic disorder as a combination of CBT and medication.

Other therapies or a combination of therapies also may be tried. These include: psychotherapy; exposure therapy (a form of behavior therapy); virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET); eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR); rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT); and psychoanalytic therapy.

4. SELF HELP METHODS.
For various reasons, many people choose to use self-help methods when overcoming panic disorder. Panic disorder should be diagnosed by a health or mental health professional initially to rule out possible physical causes as well as other possible psychiatric conditions, such as depression.

Many self-help methods are similar to those that would be learned in a CBT setting, and it may be more effective to learn these methods with a trained CBT therapist who will make sure the methods are practiced properly and may also provide much-needed motivation. A good self-help books also provide effective and thorough instructions for self-help methods, but, again, motivation often is an issue if practicing these exercises on one’s own.

Self-help methods include relaxation and breathing exercises; cognitive exercises (such as anger management, assertiveness, positive thinking, and more); and lifestyle changes (exercise and nutrition changes).
Unconventional Medicine & Holistic Healing
Some people choose to use alternative medicine and/or holistic healing when overcoming panic disorder. Again, there should be professional diagnosis of panic disorder before using any methods.

Additionally, your doctor and/or therapist should be aware of any methods you are trying on your own, particularly if these methods include herbs, vitamins, and supplements. Ideally, alternative medicine should be practiced with the help of a practitioner trained in these methods.

Alternative medicine and holistic healing practices that may help with panic disorder include: acupuncture; aromatherapy; flower essence therapy; hypnosis and hypnotherapy; and herbs, vitamins, and supplements. These methods are not FDA-approved and are not well-validated treatments for panic disorder.

To put it simply, bipolar disorder affects feelings, thoughts, behavior, and perceptions. Experts say that it is brought about by the chemical and electrical elements found in the brain that are not functioning properly. Some say that it runs in the family, so families having a history of bipolar disorder or other mental illnesses are more prone to having the disorder.

There are certain medications given for bipolar patients, and not all of them are quite comfortable in taking daily doses of different medications. Most of them are interested to secure supplemental or alternative therapies rather than taking prescription medications.

Omega 3

There are many researches showing that omega 3 found in fish oils and in certain fishes are excellent for bipolar patients, as well as those having mental illnesses. There was a significant research done in 30 bipolar patients for four months. It was a placebo-controlled and double-blind study. It aims to compare omega 3′s efficacy versus olive oil or placebo for the treatment of bipolar disorder.

According to researchers, bipolar disorder is a neuropsychiatic illness that has a high mortality and morbidity. In their preliminary study, it was proven that omega 3 performed better and resulted to longer remissions based on the four scales of symptom-severity. Further studies are still underway, and researchers are hoping that they can come up with new classes of psychotropic compounds that can be used as mood stabilizers.

Herbal

Most people resolve to the use of herbal supplements instead of taking prescribed drug medications. But not all herbs are good for the treatment of bipolar disorder. In fact, there are certain herbs that can worsen the condition of a bipolar patient. Some herbal supplements actually have a harmful reaction when used together with certain drugs. Consult your doctor first before taking any herbal medication in conjunction with other drugs.

Nutrition and Your Diet

You have to adjust your diet, and this means checking your meal menus everyday. The nutrients which the body receives are very important. Holistic physicians use b-complex, magnesium, and thiamin for episodes of depression.

Pastoral Counseling

If you’re suffering from bipolar disorder, you can also talk to your pastor, priest, or rabbi instead of talking to therapists. The religious community may be of great help during these times. In fact, the community is now recognizing the role of spirituality and prayers. In can even be included in psychotherapies and medication.

Art Therapies

If you’re always staying at home, then perhaps you might want to join expressive therapies. Through the arts, you can express freely your feelings and do so without inhibitions. You can enroll in a drawing class, sculpting, painting, and many others. Find an appropriate therapist in your locality who specializes in art therapies or expressive therapies.

If you want movement, enroll in a dance therapy. Let your feet fly and your spirit soar while incorporating your physical, cognitive, and emotional facets to the dance.

Soothing music can make a person relax. So why not enroll in sound or music therapy? Your body chemicals can be stimulated to improve blood pressure and flow, breathing, pulse rate, and changes in posture.

Traditional Medicine

Traditional medicines or the culturally based ones like shiatsu, reiki, acupuncture, yoga, Ayurveda, talking circles, and sweat lodge are only typical examples. All these healing arts are based on balancing the states of the physical, spiritual, and emotional for the wellness of an individual. If the forces in your body are imbalanced, you will likely get an illness.

If all these things are combined: omega 3, herbal, right diet, pastoral counseling, art therapies, and traditional healing arts, perhaps the forces of the body can be balanced and a bipolar patient can be treated effectively. But remember to consult your doctor for any problems that you may encounter, and don’t just stop your prescribed medication if you have one. Continue using it, and ask your doctor if you can also use other alternative medication.

Bipolar disorder is said to affect a person’s thought patterns, behaviour, feelings and their perception of things around them. Professional put this down to chemical imbalances and electrical elements of the brain, as it is not functioning normally. Others say that this is a mental illness which can run in the family, so people are more proned to getting this disorder if there is a medical history of bipolar disorder running in the family or any other mental illness.

Many types of medications are offered to bipolar patients, and not everyone is comfortable with having to take the daily doses continually for some time. There are those who prefer to supplement or to use alternative therapies which are deemed healthier than using prescribed medication.

1. Omega 3

Research shows that Omega 3 which is found in fish oils and in many other fishes is good for anyone with a mental illness and bipolar. One significant research involving 30 bipolar patients was conducted over four months. It was done to show comparisons of the efficacy of Omega 3 against olive oil or placebo for treating bipolar disorder. Researchers believe that this disorder is a neuropsychatric illness with high mortality and morbidity. They proved at their preliminary study that Omega 3 was much better in performance for longer remissions, as based on the symptom severity which is on four scales. Studies are continuous in the hope of finding new classes of the psychotropic compounds, so that they can be utilised as mood stabilisers to help sufferers.

2. Herbal

Herbal supplements are preferred by many people as an alternative to taking prescribed drug medications due to their beliefs, or as a healthy option. Not all herbs are ideal for treating bipolar disorder, as some herbs can in fact worsen the condition in a patient. Taken with some drugs, herbal supplements can have a harmful reaction. You should always consult your doctor before taking herbal medication with any other drugs.

3. Diet and Nutrition

For treating depression, holistic doctors will suggest that you use B-Complex, Magnesium and Thiamin as part of your diet. Organise your menus every day and check that you have adjusted your diet accordingly, so that your body receives the necessary nutrients to regain your good health again.

4. Counselling with your Pastor

Whatever your religion, if you are suffering from Bipolar Disorder, it is a good idea to talk to your vicar, pastor, priest or rabbi, rather than to a therapist. During difficult times, your religious community can be a great help at comfort. Spirituality and prayers are recognised by the community, and also as part of your medication and psychotherapy sessions.

5. Art Therapy

Joining in expressive therapies are especially good for those who mostly stay at home. Art helps you to express yourself freely without any inhibitions. You may want to enrol in classes like Drawing, Watercolours, Oil Painting, Sculpting and many other Arts. Look around locally to see what classes are available in art or expressive therapies.

For those who enjoy movement, there is dance therapy. Your cognitive, emotional and physical wellbeing is catered for as your feet move into action and lift your spirits.

How about sound or music therapy? Listening to soothing music can help anyone relax. The chemical in your body will react so that your blood pressure, improves along with your breathing and pulse rate; and even your posture will change.

6. Traditional Medicine

For emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing there are traditional medicines, some of which are culturally based. These include Acupuncture, Yoga, Reiki, Shiatsu, Ayurveda, Qigong which are all popular examples of Healing Arts, based on the belief that any imbalance in your body will cause illness.

By combining all these alternative therapies and medications a person with bipolar may be treated effectively, and bring their body back into balance by nature. You should always consult a doctor if you encounter any problems, and any prescribed medication should be continued with unless it is making you worse in which case, a doctor will change course. Your doctor will be able to advise you on alternative medicines.

Further information available on Acupuncture for depression

Depression can affect up to about 16% of the population of the United States, sometimes in a milder, sometimes in a more acute form different forms. Treatment is usually necessary in order to help the individual cope with ordinary life. Do you want to know why anxiety and depression can be healed with acupuncture? Do you know how a more active life can heal Seasonal Affective Disorder? If so please keep reading.

‘Tis The Season For SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). If you or someone you know has been feeling moody, tired, depressed, anxious, and has the autumn blahs or winter blues, you or they could be experiencing SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). SAD is a type of anxiety, sadness or depression that occurs at the same time of the year on a recurring basis. Symptoms often begin in the fall as the daylight hours shorten (often in October or November) and continue into the winter months (ending in January or February). Less frequently, SAD can be experienced by some in the spring with the lengthening of daylight hours (around April) and continues through the summer.

Symptoms of Fall/Winter SAD may include the following:
- Feeling depressed, sad, anxious, moody, lacking energy
- Sleeping more and still feeling tired
- Loss of interest in usual activities
- Craving for carbohydrates like pasta and bread
- Weight gain or loss
- Difficulty concentrating and processing information at work or school

Way to Control Your Panic Attacks

Stress and anxiety can be found in just about any person. Many people experience stress and anxiety so great that they can’t do their day to day activities. There are some symptoms for daily panic attack such as trembling, dizziness, breathing problems, and stomach pain. There are lots of people that go to the emergency room because they think that they are having a heart attack. Indeed these are very scary symptoms but they however are not life threatening at all.

To help yourself in gaining control over your panic attacks you need to first recognize what the triggers are of the panic attacks. If you happen to do this then it will give you time to deal with them.

There are some relaxation methods that may help with staying focused and calm. Yoga, meditation, and some breathing techniques can help. When you have a panic attack you react out of proportion and out of reality. If breathing methods are practised you could remain calm and in focus, helping you stop a panic attack before it starts.

Diet pills, coffee, tea, soda and other intake of caffeine needs to be avoided at all means. Panic attacks are triggered from the central nervous system and caffeine stimulates it.

Factors that may be related to SAD:

- Your biological clock (circadian rhythm). Having less sunlight in fall and winter may confuse your body’s internal clock, which signals when you should be awake or asleep. This disruption of your circadian rhythm may lead to feelings of depression.

- Melatonin levels. The change in season can disrupt the balance of the natural

hormone melatonin, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood.

- Serotonin levels. Reduced levels of sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood. Too little serotonin can cause depression and anxiety.

Risk factors that may increase your risk of SAD include:

- Being female. Some studies show that SAD is diagnosed more often in women than in men, but that men may have more severe symptoms.

- Living far from the equator. SAD appears to be more common among people who live far north or south of the equator. This may be due to decreased sunlight during the winter and the longer days of summer.

- Family history/environment. Depression and anxiety syndromes (including SAD) can run in families. Genetics is believed to play a role in some and environmental factors also can be a huge factor. During fall and winter months there are more family gatherings due to holidays (Thanksgiving, Hanukah, and Christmas) and severe weather can cause more confinement of families indoors for extended periods of time. Family can be supportive and positive- or some family members can be negative and draining (Energy Vampires). We can buy into the negative energy of the people around us; or we can choose to transform the negativity and rise above it (this is what our Shift book series SHIFT: 12 Keys to Shift Your Life and Shift: A Woman’s Guide to Transformation was designed to assist with).

Exercise needs to be a ritual. Exercise will release endorphins into your blood stream. These are hormones that help you reach an euphoric feeling, at also can be called a “runners high.” Consistent exercise will help you stay focused, and also relaxed.

Hopefully with using these methods of ways to control your panic attacks you will be able to gain some sort of control over them.

Treatments for SAD:
1. Exercises For The Mind and Body:
Move! Walk, run, bike, or go to the gym. Practice yoga, tai chi, or qigong. Dance around the room in figure 8′s, and/or wave your arms and move your hips in figure 8′s. Do the ’3 Thumps’ every morning. Use EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) to tap for your symptoms of sadness or anxiety (watch our free EFT demonstration video if you need a refresher in the procedure or tapping points). Meditate or use guided imagery (our guided meditation CDs are designed to assist) to diminish sense of abandonment, powerlessness, feeling unlovable, fear of the unknown, heartache, guilt, shame, anger or resentment. Any physical activity should help move your energy (externally and internally) and the more often you get off the sofa or chair the better. Massage therapy or acupuncture to free stuck or excess energy in your meridians can also be helpful.

2. Light therapy:
In light therapy, also called phototherapy, you either go outside during bright daylight hours or sit a few feet from a specialized light therapy box or full spectrum plant light, so that you’re exposed to bright light that mimics sunlight. Artificial light therapy mimics outdoor light (must include a full spectrum of light) and appears to cause a change in brain chemicals linked to mood by stimulating the pineal gland. This treatment is easy to use and seems to have few side effects. Dawn simulation is another light treatment, a dim light goes on in the morning while you sleep, and it gets brighter over time, like a sunrise.
Certain hardware stores such as Lowes or Home Depot have full light spectrum lamps in the garden section. You don’t have to spend a fortune… to feel or see the light.

3. Medications:

Some people with seasonal affective disorder benefit from treatment with antidepressants, especially if symptoms are severe. They include:

- Serotonin Specific Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) Antidepressants. Antidepressants commonly used to treat seasonal affective disorder include paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem), (Luvox), citalopram (Celexa), and escitalopram (Lexapro). SSRI medications address the symptoms of depression and anxiety with associated insomnia, excessive worry, and decreased appetite.

- Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (NRI) Antidepressants (Bupropion). An extended-release version of the antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin SR or XL) may help prevent depressive episodes in people with a history of seasonal affective disorder. NRI medication is helpful for depressive symptoms with associated low energy level, poor motivation, and increased sleep.

- Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake (SNRI) Antidepressants. Medications in this class include venlafaxine (Effexor, Effexor XR), (Cymbalta), and (Pristiq). SNRI medications address the symptoms of depression and anxiety with associated excessive worry, low energy level, and poor motivation.

4. Counseling:
Counseling (individual, marital or family) is another option to treat SAD. Psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral, insight-oriented, brief solution-oriented) can help you identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to depression or anxiety. You can also learn healthy ways to cope with SAD and manage stress.

5. Nutritional and dietary supplements used to treat mild depression/anxiety or poor concentration/focus symptoms of SAD include:

- St. John’s wort. This herb has traditionally been used to treat mild depression and anxiety. Be sure you are taking a pharmaceutical grade and that it does not conflict with medications you may be taking.

- SAMe. This is a synthetic form of a chemical that occurs naturally in the body. SAMe hasn’t been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat depression in the United States. However, it is used in Europe as a prescription drug to treat depression.

- Melatonin. This natural hormone helps regulate mood. A change in the season may change the level of melatonin in your body. Some people try taking melatonin supplements, but discuss this with your health care provider first before doing so as it may be contraindicated with certain medications.

- Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements have been shown to relieve mild depression or anxiety symptoms in some studies. Sources of omega-3s include fatty, cold-water fish, such as salmon, mackerel and herring. Flaxseed, flax oil and walnuts also contain omega-3 fatty acids, and small amounts are found in soybean and canola oils.

- Huperzine. Huperzine-A is a plant alkaloid derived from the Chinese club moss plant, Huperzia serrata (a member of the Lycopodium species). In China, huperzine extract has been used for centuries to treat various ailments such as swelling, fever and blood disorders. During the past few years, Huperzine has been studied extensively for its potential in treating dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease. By reducing the activity of acetylcholinesterase, Huperzine A may help to reduce the breakdown of acetylcholine and may help preserve or even restore memory. While recent studies have shown that taking Huperzine A may help to relieve dementia symptoms and appears to enhance general mental functioning (poor concentration and focus) when it was taken consistently for as little as one month; more research is needed before Huperzine A can be recommended for either dementia or general memory improvement.

Additional tools and techniques (specific meditations, energy medicine techniques, qigong exercises, stress reduction tips, etc) for transforming SAD or other obstacles, situations or circumstances which might be causing you to feel ‘stuck’ can be found in our latest best-selling book titled Shift: A Woman’s Guide to Transformation by Tracy Latz, M.D. and Marion Ross, Ph.D. (available on Amazon). In short, you do not have to silently suffer with SAD. It is important to know that SAD is a real, defined issue for a large number of people and that professional help is available and should be consulted if you become suicidal or consistently feel that life is not worth living. Severe depression should be taken seriously as it can be a life-threatening illness. Help is available if you find your self in a deep dark hole from which you cannot escape- contact your primary care physician, local mental health center, local hospital, therapist, psychiatrist, or pastoral counselor for further assistance.

Social anxiety disorder will often have symptoms that are similar to other types of social disorder symptoms. The symptoms are triggered, though, when an individual is facing a social situation. They may experience symptoms such as sweating, a racing heart, muscle tension, problems speaking clearly, dry mouth and shaking. Of course, when the social anxiety disorder symptoms like these occur, it brings on additional fears and therefore even more worry about being judged.

The end result is that people that face social anxiety disorder will likely pull themselves out of social situations. You may avoid social outings, or stop doing things that put this type of pressure on you such as speeches and holding meetings. Many will do this type of avoidance anytime they feel that a social anxiety attack is imminent. Additionally, some people will endure them, but will be under a huge amount of stress during an attack.

Social Anxiety Disorder Treatment Options

When it comes to social anxiety disorder treatment options, there are several very key elements that can be used. This condition is considered to be a long lasting, even a lifetime event in a person’s life. Therefore, social anxiety disorder treatment really should be sought after.

· Medications: There are medications on the market that can help in the treatment of social phobia. These medications are in a class of antidepressants that are known as SRI’s (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and are sometimes quite effective in the treatment of social anxiety disorder. One very common medication prescribed for social anxiety disorder treatment is that of Paxil.
· Self Help: There are herbal remedies on the market that have been found to have a good amount of help for social phobia. These have been used for hundreds of years with success. Additionally, acupuncture and yoga have been helpful in the treatment of this condition as they can help to relieve the stresses on the body and promote healing.
· Behavioral Help: Psychotherapy is often used too as a social anxiety disorder treatment as well. Therapy can and does help people. They will look at what is truly rational and help you to work through this effectively.

Social anxiety disorder treatment is based on the fact that you need to seek out professional help. You should talk with your doctor about your concerns and they can easily help you to work through them. One thing that may help you to do this is to realize that upwards of 13% of the population will experience social anxiety disorders at some point in their lives. That means, you are not alone or strange for feeling this way!

Anxiety disorder is a generalized term for many psychological conditions including obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder as well as the many phobias. Treatments for anxiety disorder can vary depending on the severity as well as the type of disorder a person has. Some doctors would treat anxiety disorders using different antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Zoloft, Paxil and Prozac. Other doctors even prescribe a combination of antidepressants to help treat the disorder.

However, most people are wary about taking antidepressants for fear of becoming too dependent on the drugs. These medications also have addictive properties in them that can have the patient rely heavily on them for help. Because of the synthetic chemicals in prescription drugs, more and more people are looking for alternatives treatments for anxiety disorders. Patients are looking for a more practical and long-term approach to treating anxiety. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Detoxification

Detoxification is actually more than a new-age relief for anxiety. Our ancestors have used this method to help cure several diseases including anxiety. One method used in detoxification is through fasting which combines the use of laxatives and lavage. Some people also add sauna therapy into the detoxification process. Detoxification can rid the body of harmful chemicals that have accumulated over the years. A short fast can also help invigorate the organs and give it a little rest. Often, a restricted diet consisting of fruits and vegetables can be beneficial. Mono-diets (eating only grapes or only apples) are also another option. However, if you decide to go on fasts that lasts more than 8 or 10 days, consult a physician first.

2. Yoga

Yoga is the perfect relation technique for people who seek the proper treatment for anxiety disorders. Yoga seeks to create peace within one’s psyche, advocating positive thought and serenity. Yoga combines physical exercises (the asanas) with deep-breathing (yoga nidra), creating a truly tranquil emotional and spiritual experience. Yoga can not only help you relax but also take away factors that aggravate your anxiety.

3. Alternative Healing Methods (massage therapy and acupuncture)

Massage therapy can be traced back to a thousand years ago. Medical practitioners have used it to treat a variety of health-related problems including anxiety. It helps reduce stress, known to stimulate important chemicals in the body like serotonin and endorphins (called the happy hormones because they induce a feeling of well-being) and improve overall blood circulation.

An ancient Chinese method of healing the body, it dates back to almost 2, 500 years ago. The Chinese believes that there are patterns of energy flow in the body that corresponds to a certain point of health for one person. If this flow is interrupted, it can result in disease. This is what acupuncture tries to correct to improve one’s health. It has already been acknowledge by most Western doctors to be applicable to certain health problems including the treatment for anxiety disorder.

 People who suffer from SAD feel fine during the warmer months, but suffer from symptoms such as depression, fatigue, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, and lethargy during the late fall and winter.  Over ten million people in the United States suffer from SAD, two-thirds of which are women.  The cause of SAD is unknown, but it is thought by western doctors to be related to a drop in melatonin levels in the brain caused by decreased exposure to sunlight during the winter. Currently, SAD is treated through the use of light therapy, and in some cases, antidepressants.

 From a Chinese medical framework, SAD is related to an imbalance between Yin and Yang.  The theory of Yin and Yang was developed thousands of years ago to describe the relationship between opposing forces in nature.  Yang describes that which is bright, active, moving, warm, and transforming.  In contrast, Yin describes those things which are cool, dark, still, and rejuvenating. This time of year, the seasons are changing from summer, which is a bright and warm Yang time of year to the cooler, darker, and more nourishing Yin winter months.

 For some people, the abundance of Yin during the winter becomes overwhelming, giving way to the hallmark symptoms of SAD.  For many, the stillness of Yin becomes lethargy, fatigue, and lack of motivation..  Like a frozen river, this lack of movement ultimately creates stagnation which manifests as depression and feelings of sadness.

 While there is no magic bullet for SAD, incorporating some Yang activities into your life can help.  Remember Yang is warm, bright, and active.  Try to get outside during the middle of the day if possible, especially on sunny days.  While you may not feel motivated, taking a walk, going to the gym, or cross country skiing are all good ways to stir up the warmth and activity of Yang. Also, activity in the form of change, like trying something new, is a way to boost Yang.  Choose activities that warm not only your body, but your heart as well.  Time with friends, volunteering,  or a special family event are both moving and warming activities. 

Needless to say, the use of acupuncture can offer some relief for SAD.  Combined with other modalities, such as heat therapy and Yang fortifying foods and/or herbs, acupuncture can be an effective way to get through the winter.