Starting psychiatric care for anxiety is a brave and hopeful step, especially when medications for anxiety are part of your treatment plan. Northeast Health Services (NEHS) offers psychiatry services that help you make thoughtful, informed choices about managing your mental health. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or revisiting your treatment path, we provide guidance grounded in compassion and built around your needs.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, you’re not alone, and there are effective options available. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 20% of adults in the United States experience an anxiety disorder each year. For many, antianxiety medications play a meaningful role in feeling better. With the proper support and information, medications can be part of a treatment plan that brings relief and helps you move forward with confidence. NEHS is proud to serve our communities throughout Massachusetts with treatment on your terms. Call 508.794.8711 today to speak with our team and get started.

What you should know about medications for anxiety

Medications for anxiety are most commonly used to reduce the intensity of symptoms such as excessive worry, panic attacks, restlessness, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can interfere with daily life, and medication may offer relief, especially when other strategies haven’t worked independently.

It’s important to know that antianxiety medications work differently for each person. The type of medication prescribed will depend on factors like your diagnosis, symptom severity, medical history, and personal preferences. Most importantly, psychiatric providers work closely with you to monitor how you respond and make adjustments as needed.

At Northeast Health Services, our psychiatry services include medication management as part of a whole-person approach to care. Your experience and goals guide the process, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Which mental health conditions can be treated by antianxiety medications?

Antianxiety medications may be used to treat a range of anxiety-related conditions, including:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Characterized by chronic worry and tension, even when there’s no specific cause
• Panic disorder: Marked by sudden, intense episodes of fear or panic, often accompanied by physical symptoms like heart palpitations or dizziness
• Social anxiety disorder: Involves extreme fear or discomfort in social situations
• Phobias: Focused fears of specific objects or situations, such as flying, heights, or animals

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may also benefit from antianxiety medications, though these conditions often require more specialized treatment plans. Your psychiatric provider will consider the full scope of your mental health needs when recommending medications.

What are the commonly prescribed antianxiety medications?

There are several types of medications for anxiety, each with a unique mechanism of action:

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): These medications, such as sertraline and escitalopram, are often prescribed as a first-line treatment for long-term anxiety relief. They help increase serotonin levels in the brain, improving mood and reducing worry.
• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): Medications like venlafaxine work similarly to SSRIs, improving mood and reducing worry. SNRIs are used to treat GAD and panic disorder.
• Benzodiazepines: Fast-acting medications such as lorazepam and alprazolam may be used short-term for acute anxiety or panic attacks. Because they can lead to dependence, they’re typically not used as a long-term solution.
• Buspirone: A non-sedating medication used for chronic anxiety. It doesn’t carry the same risk of dependency as benzodiazepines and may be a good option for ongoing use.
• Beta-blockers: Sometimes used to manage physical symptoms of anxiety, like rapid heartbeat or tremors, especially in performance-related situations.

Benefits of taking medications for anxiety

Medications can be an empowering part of a well-rounded mental health treatment plan. Some of the benefits include:

• Symptom relief: Medications can significantly reduce symptoms like chronic worry, panic attacks, and physical tension.
• Improved daily functioning: With reduced symptoms, many people can engage more fully at work, in relationships, and their daily routines.
• Complement to therapy: Medications often work best when combined with therapy. Many people find that therapy helps them explore the root causes of anxiety while medication supports symptom management.
• Fewer relapses: In some cases, medication can reduce the risk of anxiety returning in the future.

Every person’s experience with antianxiety medications is different. That’s why Northeast Health Services offers treatment that supports each patient we serve, so that you can explore options with confidence and care.

How psychiatry services can help

At Northeast Health Services, we offer personalized psychiatry services as part of our outpatient care across Massachusetts. When you begin treatment with one of our psychiatric providers, they will:

• Discuss your symptoms and history: This helps determine whether medications are appropriate and which may be a good fit.
• Collaborate on your care plan: Your provider works alongside therapists and other care team members to make sure your treatment is well-rounded and personalized.
• Provide medication management: You’ll receive ongoing support to monitor side effects, dosage, and overall effectiveness. Adjustments are made as needed to support your progress.

Whether you’re starting medications for the first time or exploring new options, our goal is to make your care experience feel manageable, supported, and centered around your unique needs.

Your next step starts with Northeast Health Services in Massachusetts

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Medications for anxiety, when guided by trusted psychiatric providers, can open the door to more stability and peace of mind. At Northeast Health Services, we believe in compassionate care for your mental well-being, and we’re proud to serve our local communities throughout Massachusetts. Whether you prefer in-person appointments or telehealth, we’ll meet you where you are—literally and emotionally. NEHS is here to help you manage your mental health. Call 508.794.8711 today to learn more or schedule an appointment.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.