In today’s fast paced world, stress and anxiety have never been more prevalent. There are many options available for people who want to manage and reduce their stress and anxiety. In traditional western culture, medications have been the first-line of treatment, as most doctors are trained to only prescribe medications.
Many people are turning to vagus nerve stimulation as a drug-free alternative to managing stress and anxiety, especially the VeRelief device because of its accessibility, low cost, and simplicity of use. But it is important to understand the differences between medications and VeRelief so you can have your expectations in check.
VeRelief vs. Pharmaceuticals
There are many types of drugs to treat various forms of anxiety and other mental health ailments, but we will compare VeRelief to the two most common forms of anxiety medications: antidepressants and anxiolytics (anti-anxiety).
Antidepressants
Most antidepressants work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. Antidepressants can also affect other neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which are involved in regulating mood, energy, and motivation. By increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, antidepressants can help regulate mood and reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. Antidepressants can also help improve sleep quality, reduce irritability and agitation, and increase feelings of calm and relaxation.
Antidepressants are intended to be taken 2-3 times per day everyday for weeks to months at a time. They don’t act fast and are not intended to offer quick relief when you are having a stress response.
However, it's important to note that antidepressants are not a one-size-fits-all solution, and their effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and their specific mental health condition. Additionally, antidepressants can have potential side effects and risks, and they should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines (anxiolytics) work by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is responsible for regulating the activity of neurons in the brain. When benzodiazepines are ingested, they bind to specific receptors in the brain that are involved in GABA activity. This increases the effectiveness of GABA in reducing the activity of certain neurons, which can lead to a decrease in anxiety, stress, and related symptoms.
Benzodiazepines can provide fast relief from symptoms of anxiety and stress, and they are often used in the short-term to manage acute symptoms. However, benzodiazepines still take 30-60 minutes to kick in and take effect, are highly addictive, can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms, and have sedative effects that can last for hours.
VeRelief Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation
VeRelief is a fast-acting, non-medical option that provides nearly immediate relief from stress and anxiety without any side effects or risk of dependence. Unlike medication, VeRelief can be used as needed during any episode of anxiety or stress, and can be used for hours at a time or every day as part of a daily routine.
The best part is that there are no costly doctor visits or copays associated with using VeRelief. With medications, doctor visits and copays can add up to around $50 per month, or up to $600 per year. However, with VeRelief, the upfront cost is $200, and average annual cost is around $200. This makes VeRelief an affordable and effective option for anyone looking to manage their stress and anxiety in a sustainable and healthy way.
If you live a fast-paced and high-stress lifestyle and need effective and fast relief but don’t want to deal with cognitive impairment, risk or dependence, sedative side effects, and increased risk of physical health issues, VeRelief is an excellent option to consider. It offers a powerful calming sensation at a speed that medications simply cannot compete with, but without any of the negative side effects.