Americans worry a lot about their health, safety, finances, and social media profiles. The list goes on. The Anxiety and Depression Alliance of America (ADAA) estimates that 40 million Americans are affected by anxiety disorders. This is 18% of the total population.
American children are also anxious. Anxiety disorders affect 25% of teenagers between 13 and 18. If anxiety is not treated, it can have a negative impact on a child’s school performance and relationships with peers. It can also put them at risk of developing depression, low self-esteem and later drug and alcohol addiction.
As any expert will tell, some anxiety can be motivating. It motivates you to be on-time, helps you study for big exams, and keeps you from wandering aimlessly through parks at night.
According to an American Psychiatric Association Study, here’s a quick rundown of the stuff that can boost us up.
Anxious Americans were concerned about their health, safety and finances. But the most important concern was money.
Nearly three quarters of women and nearly three quarters of young adults aged 18-34 said that they are somewhat or extremely anxious about paying their bills.
Women were more anxious than their male counterparts and experienced a greater rise in anxiety over a 1-year period than their male counterparts. 57% of women aged 18 to 49 reported feeling anxious, while 38% of men the same age reported it.
The American Psychological Association (APA) named a slightly different set of anxiety-provokers–particular to people ages 15 to 21 (also known as Generation Z)–in its recent report on stress in America. The top of the list:
Both sexual assault and immigration are major concerns. Mass shootings can also be a major stressor.
Gen Z’ers are more concerned about separation and deportation for immigrant or migrant family members than other Americans (57% vs. 45% of all adults).
Over 9 out of 10 Americans from the Gen Z generation reported that they felt at least one stress-related symptom, such as sadness or depression (58%), or lack of motivation, energy or interest (55%).
Half of Gen Z women and men feel that they are doing enough to manage stress. The American Psychological Association recommends self-care to combat this problem. This includes exercise, relaxation, smart food choices and time spent with loved ones and friends.
The Rise of Xanax Nation
It is not surprising, given all the worry we have about our worries and how many anxious Nellies disregard expert advice to turn to Xanax as their anxiety-blaster. According to a study published in Journal of Addiction Medicine1, US doctors prescribe Xanax 48 million times a year. This makes it one of the most prescribed benzodiazepines in America.
What is Xanax?
Xanax refers to the generic drug alprazolam. It is part of a group of drugs called benzodiazepines, which are a type of tranquilizer that reduces brain stimulation and has a calming effect. Benzodiazepines like Xanax can be used to treat anxiety, panic, and insomnia. These drugs can also be used to reduce jitters prior to surgery.2 Similar drugs to Xanax are Valium (diazepam), Klonopin, and Ativan. They all slow down the nervous system and induce relaxation. Some of them kick in in as quickly as 15 minutes. According to Dr. McGee who won a Living Now Evergreen Medal in Health and Wellness and a Readers’ Favorite Medal, the calming effects they produce can last up to six hours.
What is Xanax used for?
Xanax can be used to temporarily relieve anxiety and panic attacks. A qualified medical professional will be able to diagnose you with an anxiety disorder. This is usually done by evaluating your symptoms and performing tests to rule out any other medical causes.
Xanax 2mg blue bars can be purchased online at Pain Med UK.
According to the US Department of Health and Human Services there are many types of anxiety disorders. These are some of them:
Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by persistent, unrealistic worry, fear and apprehension.
Obsessive compulsive disorder is characterized by recurring, unwelcome thoughts and/or repetitive behavior (obsessions or compulsions).
Panic disorder is characterized by intense fear, panic attacks, and other symptoms such as chest pain, heart palpitations and shortness of breath.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is often associated with events where profound harm occurred, or was threatened, such as an attack, natural and manmade disasters, an accident or war.
Social phobia disorder is characterized by overpowering anxiety and unusual self-consciousness in social situations.
An anxiety disorder could be characterized by:
Nervousness, restlessness or tension
Feeling of imminent doom or danger
A higher heart rate
Rapid breathing
Sweating, shaking or trembling
Fatigue or weakness
Concentration problems
A present worry can cause anxiety to the point of being unfounded
A panic disorder can manifest as:
Feeling of imminent doom or danger
Heart rate rapid or pounding
Breathing difficulties
Tightness in the chest or throat
Fear of losing control, death or heart attack
Sweating, shaking or trembling
Side Effects and Warnings
Xanax can cause many of the same side reactions as alcohol. These include sleepiness, mental and physical impairments, slow reaction times, balance problems, coordination problems, light-headedness, dizziness and dizziness. Memory problems, blurred vision, confusion, stomach upset, difficulty concentrating, memory loss, memory problems, slurred speaking, difficulty concentrating, trouble concentrating and trouble concentrating are some of the other common reactions.
If you are sensitive to other benzos, such as Valium or Ativan, or if you are pregnant or nursing, you should not take Xanax. If you have liver problems, consult your doctor immediately. There is a possibility that Xanax could build up in your body and cause overdose or severe sedation. Xanax is not recommended for use in adolescents or teens younger than 18 years.
Xanax may also be habit-forming. Dr. McGee estimates that there is a two-2% chance of becoming addicted, however, the risk for those who have been dependent on opioids or alcohol is much higher. McGee is also concerned that Xanax or drugs similar to it could make it difficult for some people to learn how they can manage their anxiety. Dr. McGee says that people have difficulty learning to live without medication. The real problem is dependence. He adds that Xanax can cause falls, motor vehicle accidents and dementia over many years.
How often? How often?
The usual Xanax dose is 0.75 to 1.5mg per day. This can be divided into three 0.25 to 0.5 mg doses depending on anxiety. You should only use it as necessary. Keep in mind, however, that the dose that works best for you might not work for someone else. The dosage you are prescribed will depend on your condition, your metabolism, your weight, height, and metabolism. Most likely, your healthcare provider will prescribe the lowest dose possible that is most effective for your condition.
Do you prefer Xanax?
Researchers found that Valium performed slightly better than Xanax in relieving anxiety and depression in patients with moderate-to-severe anxiety. The side effects were almost the same and there were no significant differences in the results. Some studies have shown that Xanax can make you feel less drowsy.
Xanax Addiction and Abuse
While Xanax is safe and effective when prescribed and used as directed by a doctor, there are growing concerns about the abuse of Xanax or similar drugs.
Recent headlines suggest that Xanax use among teens is on the rise. A Journal of Addiction Medicine1 article titled Xanax “one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for anxiety and panic disorder” noted that “many primary physicians continue to prescribe it longer than recommended.” This is a concern because of dependence. Dr. McGee says, “This cannot be overstated.” “People who take Xanax are often unable to stop.” He adds.
Low-Tech Anxiety Reducers and Anti-Anxiety Tips
While medical intervention may be helpful in keeping anxiety under control, lifestyle changes can also help. These are some suggestions:
Get moving. Exercise is a proven stress reliever. Try to do 30 minutes of moderate exercise three-to five times per week. Even small amounts of moderate exercise can make a big difference.
Changes are possible. Reduce or quit smoking and drinking caffeinated drinks. Studies show that caffeine and nicotine can increase anxiety.
Stress management is something you can do. You can find stress-busting apps online, or for a low monthly fee such as Calm or Headspace, which you can download to your smartphone. Learn yoga. To ease anxiety and stress, you can practice visualization or meditation.
Get help. Treatment works. Cognitive behavioral therapy, mindful acceptance and prescription drugs such as SSRIs, SNRIs and buspirone are all options.
An anxiety app is a good choice.
Meditation and mindfulness are good practices.
Take a stroll in the natural world.
Talk to a friend.
Be healthy. Research suggests that eating a Mediterranean diet may reduce anxiety.
Benzos can be used in emergency situations, and at times for isolated fears like fear of flying. Xanax can also be used to treat anxious or agitated depression, until it subsides. Dr. McGee says that Xanax should be avoided long-term, and not used as a last resort. McGee says, “Keep it under a few weeks, ideally only for a few days or once or twice per week, so you don’t develop a dependency.”