Understanding Anxiety
You’re lying awake again, your mind racing. You’ve tried deep breathing, cutting back on caffeine, even therapy. But the anxiety keeps creeping in. Now you’re wondering—do I need medication?
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Denova Collaborative Health, I meet many patients who are unsure if their anxiety is “bad enough” to require medication. It’s a valid and personal question, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. But understanding your options can empower you to make informed, compassionate choices about your mental health.
Anxiety disorders are incredibly common. According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) affects about 6.8 million adults in the U.S.—but only 43.2% receive treatment. If you’re struggling with persistent worry, racing thoughts, restlessness, difficulty sleeping, or physical symptoms like chest tightness or stomach issues, you’re not alone.
When to Consider Medication
Treatment options vary depending on the severity and impact of your symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely recommended first-line treatment. It helps you challenge anxious thoughts and build coping strategies. But therapy alone isn’t always enough—especially if your symptoms are interfering with work, relationships, or daily life. That’s when medication might be a helpful next step.
You might consider talking to a psychiatric provider about medication if:
- You’ve tried therapy but still feel anxious most days
- Anxiety is making it hard to function—at work, as a parent, or in social situations
- You’re experiencing frequent panic attacks or physical symptoms that don’t improve
How Anxiety Medications Work
Medications like Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly used to treat anxiety. They work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect mood and stress response. These aren’t instant fixes—they take time to build up in your system—but they can significantly reduce symptoms. In some cases, providers may prescribe benzodiazepines for short-term relief, but these are used cautiously due to their risk of dependency.
Addressing the Stigma Around Medication
It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about taking medication. Many people worry it means they’ve “failed” at handling their anxiety or that they won’t be themselves. But the truth is, medication is just one tool in a larger toolbox. It doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means you’re choosing to prioritize your well-being.
Our Approach to Anxiety Medication at Denova
At Denova Collaborative Health, we believe in treating the whole person. That means offering integrated care where your therapist and psychiatric provider work together to understand your needs and create a treatment plan that fits your life. We know that mental health care isn’t one-size-fits-all—and we’re here to help you find the combination of support that works best for you.
If you’re still unsure whether medication is right for you, that’s okay. Starting the conversation with a trusted provider can help you weigh the pros and cons, ask questions, and feel more confident in your care choices. Our services include individual therapy, supportive group therapy, and medication management, all delivered with empathy and respect. Learn more about our mental health offerings on our Mental Health Therapy page.
Take the First Step Toward Anxiety Relief
You don’t have to keep managing anxiety alone. Whether it’s therapy, medication, or both, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Schedule an appointment today and start feeling better—on your terms.
You deserve peace of mind. Let Denova Collaborative Health help you find the care that makes that possible.
