Can Taking An SSRI Help Manage Symptoms Of Anxiety Disorder?
While engaging in therapy and learning healthy coping methods are often effective treatments for anxiety, sometimes medication like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help make the symptoms more manageable, too. SSRIs were introduced in the 1980s primarily to treat symptoms of depression. Their use has steadily risen since then, as research has indicated that they may be effective for a variety of other conditions too. Read on to find out how medications like SSRIs can be used for individuals experiencing anxiety, their potential side effects, and other treatment options to consider.
What are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)?
First, let’s begin by defining what SSRIs are. This acronym stands for ‘selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor.’ Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that transfers brain messages between the body’s nerves, and it’s also linked to mood. If there is not enough serotonin, only part of the information in a message may be transmitted, and the rest may not be interpreted or could be misinterpreted.
When enough serotonin is available, the body may better understand and process situations because these brain messages are clarified, making it less likely to trigger a false "fight or flight" response. SSRIs may help make more serotonin available because they stop the extra from being reabsorbed—prohibiting serotonin reuptake, in other words. Their effect doesn’t happen right away, however; it may take approximately four to six weeks for reuptake inhibitors like SSRIs to be fully effective.
What is anxiety?
When we perceive danger, we naturally become hyper-aware in order to have a better chance of surviving. While this mechanism used to apply to things like facing a dangerous animal in the earlier days of human history, it can now be triggered by what we perceive as danger in the modern world. For example, we might feel anxious and hyper-aware when it comes to undergoing surgery or skydiving. Since both of these could be potentially life-threatening, this response is considered rational in such cases. However, some people experience the same intensity of symptoms in non-threatening circumstances, such as when socializing or going to the grocery store—which is when an anxiety disorder may be at play.
General anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition experienced by over six million Americans. It’s just one of several types of anxiety disorders but is thought to be the most common. One of the key symptoms is excessive, persistent worry that can feel uncontrollable. Since this and other symptoms can negatively impact a person’s life, functioning, and overall well-being, it’s generally recommended that people experiencing it seek the advice of a mental health care provider. Tools like online anxiety quizzes may help you understand your symptoms, but they are not a replacement for seeking professional help for symptoms of this or any disorder.
Other types of anxiety disorders include:
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Separation anxiety disorder
Potential side effects of SSRIs for anxiety
Note that SSRIs are not always used on their own. In many cases, they may be one part of a broader treatment plan that can also include therapy and lifestyle changes. Medication is not right for everyone, but it can be a helpful part of treatment in some scenarios when a doctor or psychiatric provider believes it to be appropriate.
That said, some individuals are hesitant to take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors because they're concerned about side effects. Side effects may be temporary or long term, and they can vary based on the specific medication and from person to person. For many individuals, the benefits outweigh the side effects, but it’s generally a personal choice that should be made alongside the advice of a healthcare professional.
Common side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Some common side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may include the following:
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Nervousness, agitation, or restlessness
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Reduced sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, or difficulty reaching orgasm
Are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) effective with no side effects?
Patient needs and situations are diverse, which is why using any medication requires an experienced, licensed professional's supervision. For some, medications are highly effective, and for others, they're not very effective at all or cause more side effects than benefits. Furthermore, a person may respond differently to different medications in the broad selection of available SSRIs. You can consult your primary care doctor, therapist, or a licensed psychiatric provider about whether selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors may be helpful for you.
Medication management, covered by insurance
$20 average copay with insurance*
Connect with a psychiatrist*Medication is prescribed only when clinically appropriate and is not guaranteed. Pricing, availability, insurance coverage, and copays vary by plan, location, and provider availability are not guaranteed.
What are other treatment options for anxiety?
There are other interventions that can help improve symptoms of anxiety detailed below, such as:
- Mindfulness meditation
- Getting regular exercise
- Eating a nutritious diet
- Talking to a therapist
Learning healthy coping mechanisms is another common recommendation for those experiencing symptoms of anxiety. One example is mindfulness meditation. Recent research suggests that incorporating this regular practice could help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety—and in some cases, potentially even as effectively as some medications.
Adjusting certain lifestyle factors could also help mitigate symptoms of a mental health condition like anxiety, particularly in conjunction with other treatments. For example, multiple studies indicate that getting regular aerobic exercise could help reduce symptoms. There’s also evidence to suggest that eating a nutritious diet—especially one rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids—could decrease the severity of anxiety’s effects.
Seeking therapy for anxiety
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be a helpful type of therapy for anxiety in many cases. A cognitive behavioral therapist can help an individual learn to recognize and shift any distorted thought patterns that may be contributing to symptoms and develop healthy coping techniques for when they do arise.
Some individuals—particularly those who routinely experience anxiety—may feel intimidated or uncertain about the prospect of meeting with a therapist in person to address their anxiety. In cases like these, online therapy can represent a viable alternative. With a platform like BetterHelp, you can meet with a licensed therapist virtually from the comfort of home or anywhere you have an internet connection.
Getting started with BetterHelp is simple:
- Take a short questionnaire. Answer a few quick questions about your goals, preferences, and the type of therapist you’d like to work with.
- Get matched quickly. In most cases, you can be matched with a licensed provider in as little as 48 hours.
- Start therapy on your terms. Schedule sessions by video, phone, or live chat, and join from anywhere you have an internet connection.
Finding the right therapist isn’t just important – it’s everything.
Find your matchBetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift as an additional care option alongside therapy for adults 18 and older, which may include medication management when clinically appropriate. Medication availability and coverage may vary by member location, clinical appropriateness, and individual pharmacy/insurance benefits. Prescribing decisions are made by the treating clinicians. We do not guarantee that any specific medication will be prescribed or covered by a member’s insurance plan. Research suggests online therapy can be as effective as in-person sessions in treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other conditions.
Takeaway
Can taking an SSRI for anxiety help, and which SSRI is best for anxiety disorder?
Does BetterHelp offer psychiatry and medication management?
Yes. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift. BetterHelp psychiatry and medication management services provide virtual mental health care for individuals ages 18 and older who are experiencing mild to severe behavioral health symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and other conditions that may benefit from psychiatric consultation, prescriptions, and ongoing medication management. Psychiatry is an additional care option available alongside therapy and can be part of a holistic mental health care experience. Psychiatry services may include medication management when clinically appropriate. All treatment decisions are made by a licensed psychiatric provider.
Are psychiatry and medication management covered by insurance on BetterHelp?
Yes. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services that may be covered by insurance through UpLift. Many UpLift providers are in-network with most major insurance carriers (for eligible members the average copay is only $20). The cost of your medication will depend on your insurance plan. We recommend speaking with your insurance to learn how much your medication will cost. Try asking about your copay, deductible, and whether they cover your prescribed medication.
SSRIs help boost the functioning of the brain’s nerve cells that regulate emotion. Several selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as citalopram, escitalopram, sertraline, and fluoxetine, are known to be effective when treating anxiety disorders. It is sometimes used in combination with talk therapy. However, it is not possible to determine which one is best among all antidepressants in all cases. Deciding which medication is most likely effective for a particular patient requires a thorough evaluation from a licensed medical professional who is qualified to prescribe medication. The SSRI (or another category of medication) they may recommend, if any, and the doses required will depend on the results of their evaluation, the patient's needs, and the overall treatment goals.
Do SSRIs work for anxiety disorder?
Although SSRIs are commonly used to treat severe depression, they are also often used to treat anxiety disorders. However, the exact diagnosis usually guides what is most likely to be effective. For example, SSRIs like fluoxetine and sertraline have FDA approval to treat panic disorder (PD) but not generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Similarly, escitalopram and paroxetine are both approved to treat GAD but not social anxiety disorder (SAD). Mental health care professionals also commonly prescribe a medication “off-label,” meaning the FDA has not approved the drug to treat a specific condition, but the health care professional believes it may be appropriate based on an individual clinical evaluation. SSRIs are one of many types of medication that can reduce anxiety symptoms, and a qualified professional will determine which may be most likely to be helpful based on the patient’s specific assessment results.
Let your doctor know if you are taking any other medicines. Some medicines may limit the effectiveness of SSRIs or may cause serious health risks when combined with SSRIs.
What are the long-term side effects of an SSRI?
SSRIs are medicines (antidepressants) commonly used to treat depression, particularly in severe or persistent cases. They are also used to help alleviate anxiety. According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, SSRIs may help with psychological and physical symptoms associated with anxiety, such as muscle tension and sleep problems.
The long-term effects of SSRIs are still being evaluated, but present research suggests that they can be a safe and effective option for people when balanced against the risks of the mental health condition they were prescribed to treat. Common adverse effects of extended SSRI use often include sexual arousal problems/sexual dysfunction, emotional numbness, insomnia (sleep problems), and weight gain. Some patients also report discontinuation symptoms when stopping the medication. Medical professionals may help patients consider adjustments, such as trying a different SSRI, if side effects are difficult to tolerate, though individual experiences vary.
Prescribers may also use modern tools, such as genetic testing, as one factor among many when considering whether a patient is likely to tolerate a medication well. They may also discuss other strategies to help address possible side effects of SSRIs when clinically appropriate. Although adverse effects are commonly reported, some patients report a positive overall experience once efforts have been made to manage them. In one study, nearly 90% of patients reported that SSRIs were helpful and improved their symptoms. Whenever you feel side effects, talking to your healthcare provider before adjusting the dosage or discontinuing the medication is important.
Do selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) stop overthinking?
SSRIs may reduce symptoms of anxiety and overthinking, however without other interventions, there may be residual symptoms. SSRIs are often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. For example, many people with anxiety disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder report that SSRIs “turn down the volume” on their anxious thoughts, making it easier to engage in mindfulness activities or other treatment methods that reduce their symptoms. Some medications may offer short-term relief for acute anxiety symptoms, but their risks and benefits can differ significantly from SSRIs, so treatment decisions should be made with a licensed medical provider.
The risks of using benzodiazepines
Although benzodiazepines may help reduce panic attacks, restlessness, and other symptoms of GAD, they should be prescribed with caution. Benzodiazepines can carry risks such as sedation, impaired coordination, and physical dependence. According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, they may not be appropriate for everyone. In addition, combining benzodiazepines with alcohol or certain other substances can be dangerous and may increase the risk of serious breathing problems.
What is the safest anxiety medication?
The safest anxiety medication is typically the one with the lowest overall risk for a particular individual, not just the lowest risk of death or injury. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be considered safer than some other medication classes for most people, but every medication has potential risks and side effects. Ultimately, the safest anxiety medication is the one a licensed medical professional determines may be appropriate after a thorough evaluation. Medication decisions are personalized, and not everyone needs or benefits from medication.
Should I take an SSRI for mild anxiety?
SSRIs are commonly used to increase serotonin, an essential neurotransmitter for mood regulation and the functioning of nerve cells. Deciding whether to take an SSRI should be done in consultation with a medical professional who is familiar with the complexities of mental well-being and psychopharmacology. If a thorough evaluation suggests that an SSRI treatment could help improve your symptoms, your doctor or medical provider may discuss medication options with you. They may want to consider an SSRI or other medication, or they may want you to try psychotherapeutic options first. Regardless of treatment progression, they may also recommend working with a therapist or counselor in addition to considering medication.
How long should I stay on SSRIs for anxiety?
The medical professional who prescribed your SSRI will help you determine how long you should take it. They will get your input regarding its positive and adverse effects, progress with other treatments, and your overall well-being. Suppose you are experiencing adverse effects (GI issues, sleep disturbances, or weight fluctuations) from the medication for the first few weeks; they may be able to help you manage them or consider whether another medication may be more tolerable. It is extremely important that you do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without first speaking to your doctor or medical provider. Abrupt cessation or “cold turkey” may substantially worsen symptoms or have other adverse effects, which may include panic attacks, hallucinations, or fever.
Can taking an SSRI for anxiety help calm the brain?
Taking SSRIs may help some people feel calmer. According to the Nationwide Children’s Hospital website, serotonin (one of the neurotransmitters) may contribute to feeling focused, happy, and calm. Low serotonin levels may be associated with anxiety. SSRIs work by blocking reuptake and increasing serotonin levels in the brain.
While selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) don’t calm the brain through the same mechanism as sedative medication, many people report that their thoughts are calmer and easier to manage when taking an SSRI. For example, some people with obsessive-compulsive disorder report greater control over obsessive thoughts. This sense of mental clarity can be especially helpful for those struggling with anxiety.
What is the safest SSRI?
SSRIs have certain risks and adverse effects (usually mild side effects), but the safest option for each patient will be determined by the medical professional treating them. SSRIs have fewer side effects compared to TCAs and MAOIs. SSRIs are generally considered safe and are often used to treat depression and anxiety before trying some other options. However, it is not possible to determine the single safest medication based on generally available information. Before starting medication, your medical provider will conduct an evaluation that considers your unique medical profile and treatment needs. That evaluation can help them determine which SSRI may be the safest, most effective option for you, if medication is appropriate. They will also decide the duration and doses of treatment. During the first few weeks or months, it may help to communicate with your doctor to monitor how well the medication is working.
Who should not take SSRIs?
Although SSRIs are known to help increase serotonin, an important neurotransmitter for the function of the brain and nerve cells, the National Institutes of Health indicates that SSRIs should not be taken if the patient is already taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI, a different type of antidepressant), linezolid, or other medications that significantly increase serotonin levels. Combining serotonin-boosting medications increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a rare but life-threatening condition. Other medicines may also have contraindications with SSRIs. Let your doctor know if you are taking any other medicines or supplements. Some medicines or herbal remedies, such as St. John’s Wort, may be dangerous when combined with certain antidepressants. In addition, some SSRIs may not be recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding depending on the individual situation.
A person’s medical provider can provide guidance regarding whether or not SSRIs are an appropriate treatment choice in each situation.
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