Deep breathing exercises, on the other hand, stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which counteracts stress and promotes relaxation (63). Like physical exercise, the benefits of meditation are often most pronounced with regular and consistent practice. This bi-directional communication means that the state of your gut can influence your mental health.

  • If a person feels they are becoming dependent on Xanax, they should reach out to an addiction center or their doctor, who can help them make the withdrawal process safe.
  • Deficiency in vitamins has been shown to be a precipitating factor for the development of psychiatric illnesses and dull response to antipsychotics.
  • In severe cases, these side effects can escalate to increased heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, sweating, heightened anxiety, insomnia, hallucinations, and severe cravings.
  • Benzodiazepines all have a basic chemical structure that increases the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).
  • Therapists may use TMS to treat generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder.
  • It exerts a calming effect on the central nervous system by augmenting the activity of the GABA neurotransmitter in the brain, swiftly relieving anxiety symptoms.
  • It’s not FDA-approved to treat anxiety disorders, but is approved to treat panic disorder.

Alternatives to Xanax: Is Anything as Effective?

While they’re not an exact substitute for medications like Xanax, they can still be a potent tool in managing your anxiety and stress. Meditation is personally one of my favorite daily activities to maintain optimal brain function and mental health. With modern scientific methodologies, we’re now beginning to understand its profound beneficial effects and its ability to reduce stress and anxiety.

Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. Providers on Klarity Health are independent practitioners with clinical autonomy. Nothing in this article is intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including guaranteeing prescription medication of any kind or dosage. Not all providers on Klarity Health prescribe all medications, particularly medications that are controlled substances. Certain forms of exercise, such as yoga and tai chi, relieve anxiety by incorporating body movement, breath, and mindfulness.

Valerian

If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, or other forms of mental illness, contact Neuro Wellness Spa. Contact us today and start your journey towards a calmer, happier life. Clonazepam (brand name Klonopin) is another oral benzodiazepine used to treat panic disorder. Unlike Xanax, it’s also FDA-approved to treat certain seizure disorders. It’s not FDA-approved to treat anxiety disorders, but is approved to treat panic disorder. Clonazepam shouldn’t be used by people with certain eye or liver issues.

How Do I Soothe Anxiety and Manage Medication Dependence?

Seek medical advice from your doctor or other healthcare provider before using any supplements. The misconception that meditation is only for religious people is fading. Meditation can be done by anyone and can provide many mental health benefits. Try practicing mindful meditation for a few minutes each day to reduce stress and improve your connection with others. Additionally, consider talking to a trusted friend, staying active, and setting boundaries to manage your anxiety without medication.

They are also prescribed for insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, and other conditions as an off-label drug. There are many anti-anxiety medications that are alternatives to Xanax. These can take the form of other longer or intermediate-acting benzodiazepines.

Herbal Remedies

  • The clinical services offered through this website are provided by Bicycle Health Medical Group, PA and Bicycle Health Provider Group Inc., that are independent, physician-owned medical groups.
  • Natural Xanax alternatives aren’t always clinically proven to work as a substitute.
  • As we’ve explored in this comprehensive guide, there are numerous effective alternatives to Xanax for anxiety management.
  • For beginners, guided deep breathing sessions, available through apps or online videos, can also be helpful.
  • By modulating the activity of NMDA receptors in the brain, magnesium can help regulate neural excitability, preventing overstimulation and promoting calmness (32).
  • One safer long-term alternative to Xanax is trazodone, an SARI antidepressant that does not have the addictive qualities that Xanax does.
  • Meditation can also stimulate the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, all of which play roles in the mitigation of anxiety (62).

One study found that people who took an herbal extract containing passionflower saw significantly reduced symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). They are typically prescribed for short-term use or for specific anxiety-causing situations, such as a big meeting or performance. Xanax is a common brand name for alprazolam, a medication prescribed to help treat panic and anxiety disorders. It can help people manage racing thoughts, panic attacks, and other symptoms of anxiety. These natural alternatives provide a holistic approach to anxiety relief, focusing not only on treating the symptoms but also improving overall mental health.

Natural Xanax Alternatives To Reduce Your Anxiety and Stress

A treatment center will attempt to verify your health insurance benefits and/or necessary authorizations on your behalf. We cannot guarantee payment or verification eligibility as conveyed by your health insurance provider will be accurate and complete. Payment of benefits are subject to all terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions of the member’s contract alternative for xanax at time of service. Clinical trials of lemon balm extract have shown this herb can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by as much as 30% 22. There is also limited data suggesting lemon balm promotes healthy sleep-wake cycles and may combat anxiety-related insomnia 23.

Multiple clinical trials have investigated the effects of specific probiotic strains on mood and anxiety. Researchers have found that certain strains can alleviate anxiety and improve overall mood (57). Some studies even suggest that individuals with a balanced gut microbiome have a healthier physiological response to stress, which includes a more regulated cortisol (stress hormone) response (56). Probiotics can help restore balance to the gut microbiome, reducing inflammation and its detrimental effects on your mental health (55). The adrenal glands, responsible for releasing stress hormones, require adequate amounts of vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) for proper function.

Last modified: February 20, 2025