[Guest]

A close friend of mine has GAD, has had for many years, intermittently taking Zanax (not sure if the spelling is correct) which he has not been happy about because of the dependency issue and side effects etc. He has been off medication for 12 months, on this occassion, trying to deal with the symptoms and get himself 'better', however, I can see that he is really struggling on an almost daily basis. I suppose there are two questions I would like to ask, firstly, what, in your opinion, might be a better long term alternative medication than Zanax, that may not have so many of the side effects, and, secondly, what can a person best do in general, to help another who suffers with this disorder

[Guest]

Xanax is a benzodiazepine medication which is used to treat anxiety. People do become dependant upon it; but it can be very effective. I recommend either the use of longer acting benzos such as clonazepam or SSRI medication. In terms of how do deal with one another, just use your common sense, show support and caring. Also, psychotherapy may also help with GAD.
[quote] A close friend of mine has GAD, has had for many years, intermittently taking Zanax (not sure if the spelling is correct) which he has not been happy about because of the dependency issue and side effects etc. He has been off medication for 12 months, on this occassion, trying to deal with the symptoms and get himself 'better', however, I can see that he is really struggling on an almost daily basis... [/quote]