I'm coming up on the anniversary for the podcast. I started in 2015 because even with the internet at the time, it was hard to find accurate information about having an anxiety or mental health condition. I also felt that limiting treatment just to medication or therapy didn't necessarily take into consideration the needs of a diverse group of people with the disorder. There are people that have symptoms and just want them to stop. Those folks need to know you might stop one set of symptoms but if you don't address the problem, they will come back. I also have folks that will not, cannot and should not take medication. Therapy can help but you might have to do other things, like learn to meditate, breath for symptom control and manage you sugar intake. Movement is important. Proper amount of sleep is essential. Work/Life balance isn't a dirty concept, it is what our bodies need to function and thrive.

So I'm breaking this up into a series of post. The first one is about Medication in 2024.

If you need support contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255, the Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386 or text "START" to 741-741. Resources Mentioned: Mental Health America Screening Test for Anxiety. This is not a diagnostic test but it could give you indicators that there is a problem that you might need to address. There is also a version of the test in the Spanish language. If you are new to this, you want to start with authoritative information. The U.S. National Institute of Mental Health has a page on anxiety disorders and the types of medication generally prescribed for the condition. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America has a page on medication options. Helpguide.org also has information, they would prefer you to consider medication as a last resort but they have good information about anxiety disorders and attacks. Disclaimer: Links to other sites are provided for information purposes only and do not constitute endorsements. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health disorder. This blog and podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this program is intended to be a substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.