what is the cause of stress and anxiety, how do stress and anxiety harm you and how to overcome it

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

stress and anxiety : Cure Your Anxiety with Alternative Treatments

Anxiety can be treated by various methods. Two of the most common of these are counselling and taking medication such as anti-depressants. However, many people do not feel comfortable with counselling whereas anti-depressants have as much of a reputation of being a bad thing as a good thing. That brings us to alternative treatments. Many people find that relaxation techniques and herbal remedies are most effective at relieving the anxiety symptoms. Also, taking vitamin supplements, modifying the diet and doing more exercise can also be very helpful in reducing stress levels brought on by anxiety.

If you like the sound of herbal remedies to treat your anxiety then you'll be glad to know there are plenty available for you to sample. These include Siberian ginseng, Valerian root, passion flower, Kava-Kava, Chamomile and jasmine. The methods of taking these herbs varies, for example Chamomile can be consumed as herbal tea or added to the bath. Before deciding on any type of herbal treatment, however, it is recommended to seek the advice of a doctor or herbalist.

The stress caused by anxiety has a negative effect on your immune system and as a result taking vitamin supplements is crucial. This will allow your immune system to function at is normal best and help avoid further unwanted illnesses. You should also consider modifying your diet to ease anxiety. Although it may be difficult you must try and steer away from foods and drinks that you have a dependency on such as those containing caffeine and sugar. Many people take solace with chocolate but the brief high soon gives way to a low again. Also, avoiding sugary foods will help you to lose any excess weight you have which should lower the anxiety.

Another effective means of treating your anxiety is to take up more exercise. The benefits of this are too numerous to mention. Doing exercise releases endorphins in the brain which give a feel-good feeling. If you have built up stress then taking it out on a punch bag could be the ideal way to relieve it. Also, as well as changing your dietary habits indulging in more exercise will help you to lose weight and feel generally healthier.

Whichever way you to choose to treat your anxiety you have at least overcome the important first step and that is to take action and not dwell on your problem.

Andrew McNaught

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