The 7 best over-the-counter anxiety medications out there

Before we get started talking about over-the-counter medicine for anxiety and stress, there are a few vital things that we need to note. First of all, no anxiety remedy is as effective as professional mental health care. Therapy and psychiatry are the most effective ways to manage anxiety or other mental health conditions. In fact, therapy and psychiatry treatment in combination can lead to better results.

Furthermore, because anxiety medications need oversight by a medical provider, they are only available through prescription. 

That said, there are some over-the-counter (OTC) remedies and supplements that may be linked to reduced feelings of anxiety and its accompanying symptoms. Learning more about these options may open new doors for you when it comes to coping with your symptoms.

Vitamins or supplements are widely available in many different shapes and sizes, and it can be overwhelming to assess all of the options by yourself, especially if you are not entirely sure where to start.

This is your complete guide to over-the-counter anxiety medication options and the top seven choices that may bring you results. Just remember that the best anxiety medications will be prescribed by a psychiatric provider.

Want to speak 1:1 with a therapist or psychiatric provider about your anxiety & depression? Start with a free assessment. 

7 vitamins and supplements for anxiety

Over-the-counter anxiety treatment options aren’t often the first recommended option as treatment options like prescription medications and therapy are usually the most effective; however, these OTC options can work to supplement these two main treatment methods as examples of complementary and alternative medicines.

Some OTC vitamins and supplements may be effective at reducing symptoms of anxiety, but it is always important to consult your provider before you start taking a new vitamin or supplement, especially if you are taking any other medications.

While more research is needed to establish how effective supplements really can be, if you use them properly, they generally are not harmful.

1. Magnesium

Magnesium is a very important vitamin that can be found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Aside from supporting your regular cell function, magnesium may also support your moods and emotions, and inadequate magnesium has been linked to anxiety and other health problems.

Studies have found that magnesium can be a great remedy for mild feelings of anxiety, and may be particularly helpful for people dealing with anxiety as a symptom of premenstrual syndrome.

2. Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids are great for your health for many reasons, and they are naturally occurring in fish and certain plant sources like nuts and seeds.

Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to be helpful when it comes to the management of medical conditions and mental illnesses, and they can specifically help reduce inflammation and anxiety among young adults.

3. L-theanine

L-theanine is one of several amino acids, and this amino acid has commonly been promoted on account of its potential calming effects. L-theanine is frequently found in teas.

Research has shown that L-theanine may be highly effective at promoting relaxation without causing drowsiness, making it a great way to combat anxiety without becoming tired. More research is needed, but L-theanine may also be linked to reduced symptoms of stress.

4. Lavender

Taking lavender orally, or using lavender for aromatherapy, may also be very effective at reducing feelings of anxiety. Lavender has been used in medicinal remedies for centuries and is well-known for its fragrance and color.

Several trials have shown that lavender can be a great way to reduce minor symptoms of anxiety, and it may help with insomnia, too.

5. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is an ancient remedy that can be derived from a shrub plant that is native to India and North Africa, and it has been studied extensively.

Ashwagandha has been widely recognized for its ability to lower cortisol levels, which in turn reduces stress and anxiety since cortisol is known as the stress hormone.

6. Chamomile

Chamomile is a flowering plant, and it is very commonly found in teas. Chamomile essential oil, which is extracted from the plant itself, has also long been used for its anti-inflammatory and calming properties.

Chamomile can help reduce the effects of anxiety, but generally, its impact is only modest, and more research is needed.

7. Valerian

Valerian, like chamomile, is also a flowering plant that is widely used as an herbal supplement and can be very effective at treating insomnia. Studies have shown mixed results regarding its effectiveness when it comes to treating anxiety, but if you have insomnia-related anxiety, this herb may be largely beneficial for you.

Some studies have suggested that valerian does reduce anxiety and stress, while other studies have reported no changes at all, so more research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of this remedy.

Traditional treatment methods

While OTC options may be helpful if you are just starting to deal with your anxiety, they may not always be the most effective option for some people. Here are some more traditional methods of treatment, like prescription anxiety medication and therapy. 

Antidepressants such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are some of the most commonly prescribed classes of medications for anxiety, but these are not your only options. 

Even more effective, however, is psychotherapy paired with medication, though which you choose is dependent on your own individual situation.

Therapy gives you insight you may not be able to gauge looking from the inside—professionals can also bring evidence-based strategies that may help you overcome some of the social or day-to-day difficulties you’re facing because of your mental health. 

When it comes to getting high-quality, professional anxiety care, Brightside has your needs covered and we are here to help you get back to being you. 

With unlimited access to mental health services right from home and treatment options backed by science, we will work with you every step of the way in order to come up with a personalized treatment plan that will get you back on track. 

The process starts when you take our free online assessment, and then we will match you with one of our expert providers. Your provider will work with you to adjust your treatment accordingly, as many times as needed, until you find what is right for you. 

We offer evidence-based therapy, medication, as well as a combination of both, and any necessary medications will be prescribed by your provider. Even better, medication can be delivered right to your doorstep every month in most states. If you are ready to feel like yourself again, we are here for you. 

Additionally, lifestyle changes, including exercise, stress reduction strategies, yoga, mindfulness practices, and meditation are other great options that can be highly effective at helping you cope with and manage your anxiety. 

The bottom line

When it comes to treating your anxiety with over-the-counter options, it is important to note that there is no such thing as over-the-counter anxiety medication. Anxiety medications directly affect brain chemistry, and thus can only be obtained if you have a prescription. That said, there are over-the-counter remedies, like herbs, vitamins, and supplements, that are widely available and have been cited for their ability to help with anxiety symptoms, especially when paired with other treatment options like therapy and prescription medication. 

Magnesium, L-theanine, omega-3 fatty acids, and ashwagandha have especially been noted for being able to largely impact symptoms of anxiety and reduce stress, and these supplements are also highly accessible and can be found in most pharmacies or convenience stores. 

You should always consult your provider before trying any new vitamins or supplements, and this is especially important if you are taking any other medications. 

Sometimes, over-the-counter remedies like these may not be enough to get you back on your feet, and in this case, professional mental health care may be beneficial. 

Brightside is here to help.