Key points
Chronic anxiety is a burden that can rob people of joy and opportunities.
Recent research suggests that some common supplements (L-theanine and ashwagandha) may help reduce anxiety.
Any impact of these supplements is generally felt within a few weeks of beginning supplementation.
As with anxiety medication, supplements may come with side effects and should be discussed with a doctor.
Living with anxiety can feel like taking a road trip with a porcupine. You never know when things might get painful. Being "at peace" is not part of the experience. Every lane change and stop requires first considering how it might affect your cranky seatmate.
Given the intense stress that often accompanies anxiety, and how widely it occurs among the population, it’s not surprising that in t