What medication would be most effective in helping a recent immigrant cope with anxiety?

Choosing antidepressants such as Zoloft can be effective for addressing anxiety, particularly in individuals who may have generalized anxiety disorder or significant depression accompanying their anxiety. Zoloft, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), helps by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms over time.

While anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax can offer quick relief for acute anxiety symptoms, they may not be suitable for long-term management due to the potential for dependency. Beta-blockers like Propranolol can help manage physical symptoms of anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat, but they do not directly address the psychological aspects of anxiety disorders. Psychotherapy alone, while beneficial, may not provide immediate relief of symptoms, particularly for someone facing anxiety that has recently emerged due to adjustment challenges, such as those a recent immigrant might experience.

In contrast, the sustained and gradual effect of SSRIs like Zoloft can be particularly useful for someone who may need to build coping mechanisms and adjust to new life circumstances while managing anxiety effectively.