Having recently read yet another report which highlights the dangers of taking certain medication which is being prescribed by some doctors to help patients cope with their anxiety (this time the drug pregabalin), I feel compelled to write about the greater benefits of undertaking Cognitive Behavioural Therapy instead – and avoiding the risk of addiction and dependency on drugs.
Pregabalin is an anticonvulsant drug which is sometimes used as an anti-anxiety medication. It is also known by the trade names Alzain, Axalid, Lecaent and Lyrica.
It is a class C controlled medicine. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has information about controlled medicines.
If you are 18 or over, the doctor can prescribe pregabalin for you as a licensed medicine for generalised anxiety disorder (GAD).
For anxiety, pregabalin stops your brain from releasing the chemicals that make you feel anxious.
However, common side effects of taking pregabalin include headaches, diarrhoea, mood changes, blurred visions and memory problems.
Some people can become addicted to the drug, meaning they will suffer withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it.
Unfortunately, many people are given these drugs without any psychological support such as counselling, as there are long waiting lists on the NHS for talking therapies.
I urge anyone who is suffering from panic attacks, anxiety or depression to please re-consider their options – and to avoid tackling their issues by taking a pill. You will gain far more benefit and long-term healing by addressing the root cause of your anxiety or depression.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy has been shown to be an effective way of treating a number of different mental health condition, as follows:.
- anxiety disorders
- depression
- bipolar disorder
- borderline personality disorder
- eating disorders – such as anorexia and bulimia
- obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- panic disorder
- phobias
- post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- sleep problems – such as insomnia
- problems related to alcohol misuse
CBT is also sometimes used to treat people with long-term health conditions, such as:
- irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)
- fibromyalgia
- chronic pain
So, please, be very aware that (although it may seem like the easiest way to cope with your issues is by taking medication), there are also very real risks involved.
Please consider a course of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy instead.
If you would like to talk to me about Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, I offer a free 20-minute consultation by telephone, so, you can ask me any questions.
Please call me on 07913 979561 or contact me via my website:
I am here to help you.
Diane