Anxiety medications can ease symptoms, but they’re not right for everyone and they’re not the only answer. It’s up to you to evaluate your options and decide what’s best antidepressant for anxiety and depression for you. Even when anxiety relief comes with side effects and dangers, that can still sound like a fair trade when panic and fear are ruling your life. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements.

Simply fill out a form to gain access to the Find a Provider tool and it will search for clinicians near you. Medications are a great way to get some immediate relief for your anxiety. But it helps to remember that relying on medication alone can be problematic, simply because most of those with anxiety would like to eventually stop taking medications.

Even though anything sedating can be addictive as noted above, these are typically very low in addictive potential compared to benzos, marijuana or other drugs. Thus, they are used quite often these days (again, off label use) for patients with anxiety who have a history of addiction that are trying to stay sober. Mirtazapine may be more calming than other antidepressants for some people. Mirtazapine can also help appetite and sometimes is used off label exclusively for severe appetite and or weight loss. So it is good for those whose depression or anxiety has led to loss of appetite and weight. On the other hand, they may not be ideal for those who are overweight.

However, these medications are habit-forming and should not be a long-term choice. Instead, they create a bridge while SSRIs and SNRIs take effect. Current diagnostic criteria state that a person’s symptoms must cause clinically significant distress in a way that interferes with daily functioning.

They can also be used with antidepressants initially while antidepressants take time to work. I am experiencing sadness, low energy, difficulty sleeping, poor concentration, appetite changes, irritability or weight gain/loss. "Within the SSRIs, the most commonly used is Prozac because it has a lot of evidence [to support its use]," he explains, adding that Zoloft and Lexapro are also broadly prescribed. Therapy – Cognitive behavioral therapy can teach you how to control your anxiety levels, stop worrisome thoughts, and conquer your fears.

The different types of antidepressants all work differently to do this. Healthcare providers sometimes prescribe antidepressants for other conditions. This is considered an off-label, or non-FDA-approved, use of the medication. For example, providers sometimes prescribe tricyclic antidepressants for chronic pain, insomnia and migraine.