By Suleiman Tajudeen
…Continued from last week
CITIZENS COMPASS –
Psychosocial Management
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT):A helpful therapy that can assist in changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.
Medications:Antidepressants and benzodiazepines can be effective in managing anxiety symptoms.
Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and connection with others who are experiencing similar challenges.
Family Therapy: Working with the family to improve communication, problem-solving, and relationships.
Traditional and Cultural Practices:* Incorporating traditional and cultural practices, such as prayer, meditation, and herbal remedies, into treatment plans.
Anxiety disorders are a significant concern in Nigeria, and it is essential to understand the types, prevention strategies, and psychosocial management. By working together, we can provide support and resources to individuals affected by anxiety disorders and promote mental health awareness in Nigeria.
REFERENCES
–American Psychological Association. (2020). Anxiety. Retrieved from (link unavailable)
–National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from (link unavailable)
-World Health Organization. (2019). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from (link unavailable)
–Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(2), 103-110. doi: 10.1007/s10608-012-9476-1_
–Bandelow, B., & Michaelis, S. (2015). Epidemiology of anxiety disorders in the 21st century. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 17(3), 327-335._
–Kessler, R. C., Berglund, P., Demler, O., Jin, R., Merikangas, K. R., & Walters, E. E. (2005). Lifetime prevalence and age-of-onset distributions of DSM-IV disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(6), 593-602. doi: 10.1001/archpsyc.62.6.593
–Oyewole, S. O., & Oyewole, O. A. (2017). Prevalence and correlates of anxiety disorders among Nigerian adolescents. Journal of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 29(1), 53-63. doi: 10.2989/17280583.2016.127727.
Dr Suleiman Tajudeen is Head, Clinical Psychology, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Lagos State
