Whilst there is medication available for dealing withstress, it is and should not be used for coping with day to day stresses at thework place, or at home. Stress is very much a part of our lives, and we shouldlearn to cope with it without the use of medication. It is important to managestress so that it is at an acceptable or optimal level, and acts as a positivemotivating force.

However, there may be certain stressors that we face such asthe death of a loved one or a traumatic experience. These stressors aredifficult to cope with without the help of medication to control the symptomsof anxiety and insomnia. These sudden and disastrous events can createextremely stressful situations and doctors will usually have to takeprecautions in prescribing suitable medications for each individual.

Other cases where medication may be necessary or essentialfor stress related reactions include sever headaches, such as tension typeheadache (TTH) which is caused by fluctuations in the circulation of blood andmuscle tension. According to The Journal of American Medical Association,tricyclic antidepressants when combined with stress therapy, are highlyeffective in dealing with TTHs and other headache related symptoms and pain. 

The most common medication prescribed for stress is inrelation to reducing anxiety and depression, and are usually in the group oftranquilizers or sedatives which function by slowing down the nervous system.These include benzodiazepines and azapirones, which are used for short termsand have severe side effects. They may also lead to addiction if used for longperiods.

Apart from these, it is also possible to turn to a range ofnatural medications such as ayurveda and herbs. These do not contain any sideeffects, and are equally effective in reducing the physical and psychologicalreactions associated with stress.

There has also been an influx of alternative treatments usedin dealing with stress. For example, laughter has been found to release certainhormones and chemicals in our body that help to reduce stress and bloodpressure. It is also a natural cure for depression, and boosts the body’simmune system.

Research from the University of Cincinnati has alsofound that the consumption of sweets decrease the production of glucocorticoid,which is a hormone produced when the body is under stress. This hormone helpsthe body to recover from the stress, but has the negative effect of increasingobesity and decreasing the body’s immunity. Sugar snacks, specifically thosethat are not artificially sweetened, are recommended self medications forpsychological and physical stress reactions.

In sum, there is a range of medications and treatmentsavailable to help deal with stress. However, do bear in mind that if you feelthat medical help is necessary you should speak to a professional who canrecommend the most suitable alternative for your needs. Self medication shouldbe avoided.