Which category of medications is used to alleviate anxiety symptoms?

Antianxiety medications are specifically designed to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. This category of drugs, which includes benzodiazepines and certain other medications, works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This enhancement leads to a calming effect on the nervous system, making it effective for individuals experiencing anxiety disorders or acute anxiety symptoms.

In contrast, the other categories serve different purposes. Antidepressants primarily target mood symptoms and are used to treat depression, but they may also have some effect on anxiety. Antipsychotics are used in the treatment of psychosis and mood disorders, and while they might help with anxiety in some cases, they are not the first line of treatment for anxiety specifically. Stimulants are mainly prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and work by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters to enhance focus and attention, which is counterproductive for anxiety relief.

Thus, the antianxiety category is distinctly focused on providing relief from anxiety symptoms, making it the correct answer.