In today’s world, experiencing anxiety is not uncommon. In fact, 20 percent of Americans struggle with an anxiety disorder.
Whether it’s due to work, relationships, or the pressures of daily life, anxiety can become overwhelming. When it does, finding relief quickly becomes a priority. Therapy and long-term mental health care are essential. However, there are times when immediate help is needed.
One question that often arises is whether urgent care centers can prescribe anti-anxiety medications.
[Peachtree Wellness offers anxiety treatment in Atlanta, Georgia]
Can Urgent Care Prescribe Anti-Anxiety Medication?
Yes, urgent care centers can prescribe anti-anxiety medications, but there are some limitations. Unlike emergency rooms, which handle severe and life-threatening conditions, urgent care centers focus on treating non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that require prompt attention. Anxiety, especially if it suddenly intensifies or becomes unmanageable, might lead someone to seek help at an urgent care facility.
While urgent care physicians can prescribe anti-anxiety medications, they typically do so for short-term relief. At urgent care’s their main goal is to stabilize the person until they can follow up with their primary care physician or a mental health specialist.
This approach ensures that the underlying causes of anxiety are appropriately addressed over the long term, rather than just offering a temporary solution.
What Mental Health Services Can an Urgent Care Provide?
Urgent care centers are not designed to provide comprehensive mental health services, but they can offer some level of care and support. The services you can expect at an urgent care for mental health issues include:
- Initial Evaluation: Urgent care physicians can conduct a basic assessment of your symptoms, including anxiety, and determine the severity of your condition.
- Short-Term Medication Management: If necessary, they can prescribe medication to help manage acute symptoms, such as intense anxiety or panic attacks.
- Referral Services: Urgent care centers can refer you to mental health specialists, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or therapists, or mental health treatment centers for ongoing treatment.
- Crisis Intervention: In cases where immediate intervention is necessary, urgent care can provide support and guidance, though they may refer severe cases to an emergency room.
What Anti-Anxiety Medications Can an Urgent Care Provide?
The types of anti-anxiety medications that urgent care centers typically prescribe are those meant for short-term use. These can include:
- Benzodiazepines: Medications like lorazepam (Ativan) or alprazolam (Xanax) might be prescribed for immediate relief of severe anxiety symptoms. However, these are generally prescribed with caution due to their potential for dependence.
- Non-Benzodiazepine Options: Some physicians may opt to prescribe medications like hydroxyzine, which can help manage anxiety without the risk of dependency.
- Beta-Blockers: For anxiety that manifests with physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or trembling, beta-blockers such as propranolol may be prescribed.
It’s crucial to remember that these medications are generally intended for short-term relief and are not a substitute for comprehensive mental health treatment.
More: Panic Attack vs Anxiety Attack: What’s The Difference?
When Will an Urgent Care Prescribe Anti-Anxiety Medications?
An urgent care physician may prescribe anti-anxiety medication in situations where:
- Immediate Symptom Relief is Needed: If your anxiety is causing significant distress or physical symptoms that need prompt management.
- You Cannot Access Your Regular Doctor: If you’re unable to get an appointment with your primary care physician or mental health provider, urgent care can provide interim relief.
- Short-Term Crisis Management: If you’re experiencing a situational crisis, such as the sudden loss of a loved one, an urgent care physician might provide short-term medication to help you cope.
- Follow-Up Care is Assured: Physicians at urgent care will typically ensure that you have a follow-up plan with your regular healthcare provider before prescribing anti-anxiety medication.
Recommendations for Clients Seeking Anti-Anxiety Medications
If you’re considering visiting an urgent care center for anti-anxiety medication, here are a few recommendations:
- Be Honest About Your Symptoms: Clearly communicate the severity of your anxiety and any previous treatments you’ve received. This will help the physician make an informed decision.
- Understand the Limitations: Recognize that urgent care is not a substitute for long-term mental health treatment. Use their services as a bridge to get you through until you can see a specialist.
- Follow Up with a Specialist: Make sure to book an appointment with a mental health professional after your urgent care visit to address the root cause of your anxiety.
- Consider Therapy: Medication can help manage symptoms, but therapy is crucial for long-term management of anxiety. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic modalities can be highly effective.
- Have a Support System: Having friends, family, or a support group to turn to during times of heightened anxiety can be invaluable.
More: Can You Be Hospitalized for Severe Anxiety?
Find Relief From Anxiety Today
If you’re experiencing anxiety and need immediate relief, don’t hesitate to visit your local urgent care center.
They can provide short-term solutions to help you manage your symptoms until you’re able to see your regular healthcare provider. However, remember that ongoing mental health care is key to managing anxiety in the long run. At Peachtree Wellness Solutions, our anxiety treatment programs in Georgia can help you find long-term relief. Call us now at 770-202-1274 or verify your insurance now.
