Do Tranquilizers Really Relieve Stress

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For years, people have turned to tranquilizers to help relieve the effects of too much stress. But do tranquilizers really work? In some situations, tranquilizers can be helpful. But continued reliance on tranquilizers can actually be harmful to your health and even increase the negative effects of stress. If you wish to discuss the issue of tranquilizers with your physician, the following information can help you make an informed choice.

What They Are

Tranquilizers are medicines that temporarily calm you down. During short-term, stressful situations, tranquilizers may be helpful. If your doctor suggests a tranquilizer, ask about possible side effects such as drowsiness and poor muscle coordination. You will probably be advised to avoid or limit your alcohol intake, and avoid driving or operating machinery. All medicine should be treated with respect. Never take a dosage more than your doctor prescribes. Don't take someone else's medication, or let anyone take yours. Always throw away any medicine past its expiration date. Tranquilizers can reduce fears and sleeplessness during stressful times. But they do not treat the cause of someone's problems. Unless you work on the problems causing your stress, you will probably find that when you stop taking tranquilizers, any unpleasant feelings or symptoms return.

Natural Tranquilizers

There are many ways to relax that are natural, free of charge and have no negative side effects. Try one of these next time you feel stressed.

Listen to calming music.
Take a warm bath.
Take 10 slow, deep breaths. Count to 5 slowly as you inhale and exhale.
Drink herb tea.
Spend time in nature. Sit quietly for 30 minutes, allowing yourself to listen to the sounds, see the trees and shrubs, and relax.
Ask yourself what feeling you wish would go away. Then wait as your response emerges.

What You Should Know

If you or your doctor feel that you need to take tranquilizers for an extended period of time, you should think about what is causing your problems perhaps it's time to make an important change at home or work. Remember that tranquilizers can relieve the symptoms of stress, but they cannot "cure" the causes of stress. If you can't relieve your stress through relaxation techniques and other natural "tranquilizers," seek the help of a professional counselor who can help you get to the root of the problems causing your stress.