Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

GAD is treated through psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication. It is recommended to only use medication for short periods to alleviate symptoms and should always be followed by therapy.

Regular exercise is a successful treatment for anxiety. It reduces stress hormones as well as boosts the feel good chemicals in the brain. It also helps to distract people from their worries.

Signs and symptoms

Many people experience anxiety from time to time and especially when under stress. If your anxiety is persistent and constant, making it difficult to function or relax you may have a generalised anxiety disorder.

People suffering from GAD have a lot of anxiety and feelings of apprehensive expectation without any reason. They worry about a myriad of things, including their job and school performance as well as the safety of family members, upcoming natural disasters and other events. They have a sense of imminent doom and have trouble in focusing or sleeping.

The symptoms of GAD usually start in adolescence or childhood and are more common in women than men. They may linger into adulthood, often caused by depression or other mental health disorders.

You may also have other physical symptoms of anxiety, including headaches, muscle tension, and stomach upset. Talk to your doctor if you experience these symptoms. They will ask you questions to confirm that there isn't something that is causing the symptoms. They will also conduct a physical exam.

GAD is a treatable condition. Treatment options include psychotherapy and medication. Self-help techniques like mindfulness meditation, relaxation, and exercise can be helpful.

Anxiety disorders comprise a range of conditions that impact your mood and behaviour like panic disorder, whether with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias and social anxiety disorders, separation anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. Some researchers believe that genetics, temperament and environmental factors play a role in the development of these conditions.

While anyone can develop anxiety disorders but it is more prevalent among adolescents and children. Some people are more susceptible to anxiety disorders because of their temperament, while others are afflicted by mental illness or trauma. It is crucial to seek treatment if you have an history of anxiety in your family. The earlier diagnosis and treatment is started, the less severe your symptoms will be.

Treatment

Everyone experiences anxiety every now and then however for those suffering from GAD, anxiety is an ongoing feeling of anxiety and dread that interferes with their daily lives. GAD can cause you to be anxious about a broad range of issues and situations, not just one thing. It can cause you to be unable to concentrate at school or work and affect your health. It can also cause you to avoid social or activities because of anxiety and fear.

Psychotherapy and medication have been proven to reduce the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Treatment choices are based on how the symptoms impact your daily life and what other conditions you may have.

The first step is to speak with your doctor about the issue. You should tell your doctor about your symptoms, how long they have been present and how serious they are. Your doctor will then perform an examination and ask you questions. They will also look for other health issues like diabetes or heart disease, and inquire about any mental health issues in your family.

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is the primary treatment for anxiety disorders. Many forms of psychotherapy have proven to help, but cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective. This type of therapy teaches you new ways to think and act to get rid of your where do anxiety disorders come from. It requires a lot of work, but with practice, it can be very helpful.

Antidepressants are a first-line medication for GAD. Examples include escitalopram, duloxetine and venlafaxine. These medications are very efficient and have no negative side effects, especially when used for the recommended time. There are a few natural remedies that could help, like valerian and kava, however there isn't enough evidence to support these claims and they can interact with certain medications, such as SSRIs.

It is crucial to bring your child to an expert in mental health to determine the cause and treat anxiety. It is particularly important to consult with your doctor if anxiety symptoms interfere with your child's school or social life.

Diagnosis

GAD is diagnosed when someone experiences an excessive and uncontrollable worry on a regular basis for at least six months. This is distinct from the occasional feelings of anxiety that is normal for the majority of people at specific times. People with GAD are usually concerned about health, money and family issues, as well as other personal issues. They may experience difficulty concentrating and are tired or restless. The symptoms of GAD include headaches, muscle tension, difficulty sleeping and irritability. People with GAD also may have heart palpitations and stomach upset.

To diagnose GAD Your doctor will ask about your current and past symptoms. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history. Your doctor will then conduct a physical examination. He or she will check for any signs of health problems, like stomach problems, heart disease, or respiratory illnesses. Your doctor may suggest an imaging test like a CT scan or an MRI to rule out any other health problems.

GAD is treated through talk therapy (psychotherapy). Your doctor might recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of psychotherapy that's been extensively studied. CBT teaches you new ways of thinking, acting and reacting to situations that help you feel less anxious and worried. Your doctor may prescribe medication to ease anxiety. Medications are generally only recommended as a temporary treatment for GAD.

GAD patients are at risk of developing a mood disorder such as depression. They also are at risk of developing other mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder as well as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder.

There is no single reason for GAD. It is likely that genetics, life events, and chronic medical illnesses all contribute to the development of GAD. Early intervention is crucial, as anxiety can worsen as time passes. Consult your GP if anxiety is affecting your daily life for you or a family member and is present for more than six months. People with anxiety can seek help from their doctor or psychologist.

Prevention

Every person experiences anxiety from time to time particularly when they are concerned about an event or situation. However, when this feeling becomes constant and affects everyday life, it could be an indication of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). If your symptoms are affecting your daily activities, it's important to seek help. Treatment options for GAD include therapy, medication and lifestyle modifications.

Although it's difficult to pinpoint exactly what causes GAD stress, genetics and stress may be a factor. People with a family history of depression or other mental health conditions are more likely to develop GAD. GAD can also affect those who are naturally timid or shy, or have had a traumatizing experience in their life.

The main symptom of GAD is excessive and unreasonable worry or tension, typically for at least six months. This worrying or tension can be triggered by a variety of subjects, including family, work financial, health, and other issues. People suffering from GAD often aren't able to pinpoint the root of their anxiety, and their concerns seem to float from one concern to the next.

Treatment for GAD can be beneficial. First, you should speak with a healthcare professional about your symptoms. They will request an entire medical history and conduct a physical examination. They may refer you to an additional examination or treatment to an expert or psychiatrist.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other psychological therapies can help you manage your anxieties and improve the quality of your life. These treatments are accessible through the NHS and are typically offered before prescriptions for anti-anxiety drugs are issued. Buspirone and benzodiazepines are two medications that can be used to treat GAD. They both decrease feelings of anxiety and dread. Antidepressants are often used to treat GAD also, however they take longer than benzodiazepines and buspirone before they begin to work.

You can also practice relaxation techniques, eating healthy foods and exercise to manage your stress. Talking to friends and family about your worries can be helpful. If you think your anxiety is affecting your life, or the health of a friend or relative, call an Australian health service line. Visit healthdirect for more information on the services available.