Anxiety is a natural emotion that protects us from danger and helps us avoid risky situations. It is part of everyday life and plays a vital role in human survival. In moderate levels, anxiety helps us stay alert and focused. However, when anxiety becomes overwhelming and starts to interfere with daily functioning, it may indicate the presence of an anxiety disorder.
Many people suffering from anxiety disorders visit a psychiatrist in Dubai for treatment of anxiety only after years of struggling with symptoms. Early psychiatric intervention, however, greatly improves the chances of recovery.
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions. Their intensity can vary from mild worry to severe panic, often accompanied by other psychological or physical symptoms such as sleep problems, restlessness, or concentration difficulties. Unfortunately, only a small number of people receive proper psychiatric treatment — often because their symptoms are misinterpreted, minimized, or remain undiagnosed for years.
Psychiatric Treatment of Anxiety Disorders
In recent years, significant progress has been made in the psychiatric treatment of anxiety disorders. The most effective therapeutic approaches include medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or a combination of both.
A successful treatment depends not only on the choice of therapy but also on the patient’s motivation and understanding of their condition. During consultations, the psychiatrist in Dubai for treatment of anxiety helps patients recognize their symptoms as expressions of anxiety rather than signs of physical illness, teaching them how to cope with triggers and regain emotional stability.
An essential part of the treatment is identifying the individual causes of anxiety. Each person’s fear has its own roots and patterns. A detailed psychiatric assessment allows us to understand how different factors — such as stress, trauma, or lifestyle — interact and contribute to the disorder. This insight forms the foundation of an effective, personalized therapy plan.
Medication for Anxiety Disorders
In cases of anxiety disorder, various medications can be prescribed. The most common are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a group of antidepressants that help regulate mood and reduce anxiety.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants can significantly reduce or even eliminate symptoms of anxiety, but they usually take several weeks to reach full effectiveness. Typically, it takes 2 to 6 weeks before their calming effect becomes noticeable.
It is important to understand that antidepressants are not addictive. However, some medications such as benzodiazepines may be prescribed for short-term use to relieve acute anxiety symptoms. These drugs act quickly but can lead to dependence if taken for long periods, which is why they should only be used temporarily under psychiatric supervision.
Among the most well-researched SSRIs for anxiety are Escitalopram and Paroxetine. When patients respond well to treatment, psychiatrists usually recommend continuing the medication for several months to prevent relapse.
Another effective group of medications is selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as Duloxetine and Venlafaxine. They work similarly to SSRIs and are often prescribed when the first-line medications are not effective or tolerated.
A common mistake is stopping antidepressants too early or reducing the dose without consulting a doctor. Doing so often causes anxiety symptoms to return. Therefore, psychiatrists recommend continuing medication for about 12 months and then gradually reducing the dose. In some cases, long-term treatment may be necessary for lasting stability.
When SSRIs or SNRIs are ineffective or not well tolerated, other options can be considered:
Other Medications Used in Anxiety Treatment
- Buspirone – This medication can reduce anxiety symptoms but is less well studied than SSRIs. It is usually prescribed when other treatments have failed. Possible side effects include dizziness, nausea, or sleep difficulties.
- Hydroxyzine – An antihistamine that can help alleviate anxiety symptoms but is used less frequently because it is not as well researched as standard antidepressants.
- Benzodiazepines – These sedatives can quickly relieve acute anxiety or panic attacks, but due to the risk of dependence, they are prescribed only for short periods under close medical supervision.
Because every person responds differently to medication, a psychiatrist in Dubai for treatment of anxiety may need to try several options before finding the most effective and best-tolerated one.
Finding the Right Psychiatrist in Dubai for Anxiety Treatment
Choosing an experienced psychiatrist in Dubai for treatment of anxiety is crucial for recovery. The psychiatrist not only prescribes medication but also provides therapeutic guidance, psychoeducation, and emotional support throughout the healing process.
At CHMC Clinic in Dubai, psychiatric care combines modern pharmacological treatment with psychotherapy and lifestyle recommendations. The goal is to help patients understand their anxiety, manage triggers, and regain control over their emotional well-being.
If you are struggling with constant worry, panic attacks, or unexplained physical symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, or restlessness, seeking help from a psychiatrist in Dubai for treatment of anxiety can be the first step toward long-term relief and recovery.
