What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

GAD can cause a variety of symptoms, such as sweating, clenched muscles and difficulty concentrating. It can also affect your relationships and work. Symptoms tend to start around age 30. They may get worse in stressful times or when you suffer from an illness of the body.

Medications and psychotherapy can help treat GAD. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a well-studied type of psychotherapy that works for most people with GAD.

Signs and symptoms

GAD is a constant state of excessive, unrealistic worry or tension. Stresses often center around health, money, family school or work and are about things that might not happen at all. These thoughts can be a source of stress and disrupt daily life. GAD can also manifest as physical symptoms, like headaches or stomachaches.

Although everyone is anxious from time to time, if these feelings become excessive and are hindering you from living a normal life or disrupting relationships, it's time to visit your doctor. They will be able to assess your symptoms, discuss your life style and experiences to determine whether you are suffering from GAD.

Some people are genetically predisposed to GAD. They could also be suffering from an illness such as an autoimmune disorder or thyroid problem which makes them more vulnerable. Drugs and alcohol can also alter the ways your brain transmits signals. A timely diagnosis is essential for the best outcome.

Most people can manage symptoms by combining therapy and medication. Your doctor might prescribe medication to reduce anxiety, such a selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor the serotonin-norepinephrine-reuptake process for and buspirone for children. It can take several weeks for these medications to begin to work. They might also suggest an in-situ course of benzodiazepines that provide immediate relief, but are extremely addictive and should be taken only under the supervision of a doctor.

Psychotherapy helps you to change the negative thought patterns that cause your anxiety and fears. Cognitive control strategies help you evaluate your fears realistically and change your thoughts so that you can anxiety disorders go away (More suggestions) face them instead of avoiding them or trying to escape them. Your therapist might suggest a combination therapy plan to maximize your chances of recovery.

A regular exercise routine and being active socially can also aid. Making sure you exercise for 30 minutes every day and making sure you connect with others can help you feel more at ease and relaxed. Avoid alcohol and over-the-counter drugs since they are filled with chemicals that can trigger your anxiety. Lastly, remember that GAD is quite common and is easily treated.

Diagnosis

People with GAD have a persistent anxiety, excessive and unrealistic anxiety that is difficult to manage. The worry can affect their day-today activities and relationships. It may also cause physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, trembling and fatigue. The anxiety can be caused by stress, medical illness or life changes. It differs from phobias and depression, which are more specific and last for shorter periods of time. GAD is typically diagnosed in early childhood or in adolescence, however it can persist until adulthood. The symptoms can be very severe, but can improve when treated.

Doctors diagnose GAD when the patient is unable to control their anxiety and worries every day for six months or more. They are often overly worried about their health, finances and work, or their family, and they expect the worst. They also have an overall sense of dread or fear, which may be more difficult to identify than other emotions such as depression or a phobia.

It's normal to feel anxious at times however when your anxiety is affecting your relationships or daily routine, you should seek help. GAD is treatable like other anxiety disorders. Talking with a mental health professional can help. It is also possible to learn strategies for managing stress and making lifestyle changes.

Researchers are investigating the causes of GAD and the biological processes that are responsible for the condition. The genetic factors and the trauma of childhood are believed to increase the likelihood of developing GAD. The personality of an individual which includes their tendency to shyness or apathy, is also a factor. People who are suffering from depression or other mental health disorders are at greater risk for developing GAD.

Treatment

There are many reasons why people feel anxious or worried, including health, money family issues, work, school, or other issues that arise in everyday life. People with GAD feel these emotions almost continuously. They have a difficult time putting their worries in perspective and they always anticipate the worst. This makes it difficult for them to get through each day, and can cause problems with relationships and work school performance.

GAD is an illness of the mind, but there are medications and treatment treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms. Start by talking to your GP. They can conduct an examination of your mind and refer you a psychologist or psychiatrist.

In GAD, the brain's natural chemicals (including serotonin and dopamine) do not function as they should. They lose effectiveness in sending messages between cells, and this results in anxiety disorder medication and fear. Genetic and biological factors may make certain people more susceptible to GAD.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the first step towards treating GAD. It will help you learn how to manage your anxiety. It involves psychoeducation, changing negative thought patterns, and gradual exposure to anxiety provoking situations. Some patients suffering from severe symptoms require medication along with CBT. These medicines are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). They include duloxetine, escitalopram and venlafaxine.

Symptoms of GAD usually respond well to treatment however, they may recur when treatment is stopped. It is possible to reduce the chance of a relapse if you continue to use your medication according to the prescription and continue your CBT.

It's important to have the support of your family and friends. Find someone you can talk with regularly about your feelings and be sure they are open to listening without judgement or criticism. This person could be a spouse or a family member, an acquaintance or a therapy.

Certain people suffering from GAD are prescribed alternative or complementary treatments, such as kava St John's Wort and hydroxytryptophan. These supplements have not been proved to improve GAD and can cause side effects such as liver damage.

Prevention

Although some people may be unable to accept that their anxiety is out of control, getting help early is the best way to manage symptoms. Treatment can include psychotherapy, medication and lifestyle changes. It is essential to do at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, eat a balanced diet and stay connected with other people. It is also essential to stay clear of over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies because they can exacerbate anxiety.

The causes of GAD may be complicated. They are believed to be related to genes, biological processes in the body and brain, and environmental factors. GAD can be passed down through families, and it is believed that certain people are more at risk of developing the condition. GAD is more prevalent in those with a shy and negative temperament or who are more prone to fear the worst outcomes of situations. Other risk factors include traumatic events or major life changes, like divorce, moving house or chronic medical ailments.

A variety of symptoms are associated with GAD and the severity of the condition varies from person to person. However, if you feel that your anxiety is impacting your work or social life, it's worth visiting your GP whenever you can.

Your GP will inquire about your general health and what has happened in your life over the last few days. The doctor will recommend you to a specialist in mental health for an assessment. Psychotherapy and medication are commonly used to treat GAD. Therapy that focuses on changing your thinking and act including cognitive treatment for behavioural issues (CBT), are considered to be among the most effective treatments for GAD. It is also crucial to find a therapist that is experienced in treating GAD. A doctor can refer you to a talk therapy service or offer you assistance and guidance. In addition to these treatments making lifestyle changes and implementing relaxation techniques can also help your symptoms. Prioritizing your tasks can assist you in staying away from feeling overwhelmed.