Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

GAD can be treated with therapy and medication. Medication should only be used 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 distract people from their worries.

Signs and symptoms

Many people feel anxious every now and then particularly when they are under stress. If your anxiety is constant and persistent and makes it difficult to function or relax you could be suffering from a generalized anxiety disorder.

GAD is characterized by a lot of anxiety and fear for no reason. They worry about a variety of things, such as their job and school performance as well as the safety of family members, future natural disasters and other events. They feel a sense that their fate is near and have difficulty concentrating or sleeping.

GAD symptoms are more frequent in women than men and usually begin in the adolescent years or in childhood. They can last into adulthood and are often associated with depression or other mental disorders.

There are other physical signs of anxiety, such as headaches, muscle tension and stomach discomfort. Talk to your doctor if you experience these symptoms. They will ask you questions to confirm that there isn't anything else causing the symptoms and perform a physical examination.

GAD can be treated. Treatment options include psychotherapy as well as medication. Self-help methods like mindfulness meditation, relaxation and exercise can be helpful.

Anxiety disorders include a range of disorders that can affect your mood and behavior, including panic disorder that is without or with agoraphobia; phobias specific to you such as social anxiety disorder and separation anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some researchers believe genetics and temperament as well as environmental factors are the main causes for the development of anxiety disorders.

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

Treatment

Everybody feels anxious at times However, GAD is a constant feeling of worry and anxiety, which can interfere with daily life. GAD causes you to feel nervous about a variety of situations and issues, not just one thing. It can make you unable to concentrate at work or school and affect your health. It could also cause you to avoid social or activities due to anxiety and fear.

Numerous treatments have been proven to lessen the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder including psychotherapy and medication. Treatment choices are based on how much the symptoms are affecting your daily routine and other conditions you may have.

The first step is to speak with your doctor about the problem. Inform your doctor about the symptoms you're experiencing, how long they've been present for and how serious they are. Your doctor will conduct an examination and ask you questions. They will also look for other health issues, such as heart disease or diabetes, and inquire about any mental illnesses in your family.

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is the main treatment for anxiety disorders. Several types of psychotherapy have proven to help, but cognitive behavioral therapy is the most efficient. This type of therapy teaches you new ways of thinking and behaving to alleviate anxiety. It takes some effort, but with practice it can be very useful.

GAD is treated by antidepressants. Examples include escitalopram (Lexapro) duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Venlafaxine (Effexor XR). These drugs are extremely efficient and come with a small number of side effects when taken within the recommended time frame. There are some natural remedies that can help, like valerian and kava. However, there is not enough evidence to support these claims and they may interact with other medicines, such as SSRIs.

It is essential to bring your child to an expert in mental health in order to diagnose and manage anxiety. Discuss with your doctor when your child's anxiety symptoms interfere with their school, family life, or social life.

Diagnosis

GAD is diagnosed when a person has excessive and uncontrollable anxiety regularly for at least six months. This is different from the occasional feelings of anxiety that is common for most people at specific times. People suffering from GAD are usually concerned about health, money and family issues, as well as other personal concerns. They may be restless, tired or unable to concentrate. Some symptoms of GAD include muscle tension, headaches, sleep problems, and irritability. GAD can also cause heart palpitations or stomach upset.

To determine if you have GAD The doctor will ask about your previous and current symptoms. The doctor will also inquire about your family history. Your doctor will then conduct a physical examination. The doctor will search for other health problems such as respiratory or heart diseases. Your doctor might recommend a CT scan, MRI or other imaging tests to rule out other health issues.

GAD is treated through talk therapy (psychotherapy). Your doctor may suggest cognitive-behavioral therapy (cbt for generalized anxiety disorder) is a form of psychotherapy that's been extensively researched. CBT offers new ways to think, behave and react to situations, which can help you feel less stressed. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to reduce your anxiety. In general, medications are only recommended for short-term GAD treatment.

GAD sufferers are at risk of developing a mood disorder such as depression. They also have a higher chance of developing mental health problems such as bipolar or attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD), or post-traumatic stress disorder.

There is no single reason for GAD. Life experiences, genetics and chronic medical conditions are likely to all play a role in the development of GAD. The importance of seeking help early because anxiety can get worse with time. Consult your GP when anxiety is affecting daily functioning for you or a family member and lasts for longer than six months. Patients suffering from anxiety should seek out help from their doctor, psychologist, or other mental health professionals.

Prevention

Every person experiences anxiety every now and then particularly when they are concerned about an event or a situation. But, if this feeling becomes constant and affects everyday life, it could be an indication of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). If your symptoms interfere with daily activities, it is crucial to seek out help. Treatment options for GAD include therapy, medication and lifestyle changes.

Although it's unclear what causes GAD specifically stress, genetics and stress might be contributing factors. People who have an ancestral history of depression or other mental health conditions are more likely to develop GAD. People with a naturally timid or shy temperament or have experienced an event that was traumatic in their lives are also at risk of developing the condition.

The most prominent symptom of GAD is excessive and unreasonable worrying or tension, usually for at least 6 months. This stress or anxiety can be about many topics including work, family, finances, health, and other concerns. GAD sufferers often have trouble determining the source of their anxiety, and their concerns are sporadic.

Treatment for GAD is efficient. The first step is to talk to a healthcare provider or GP about your symptoms. They will take a full medical history and perform a physical exam. They may refer you to further evaluation or treatment to a psychiatrist or specialist.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other psychological therapies can help you learn to manage your worries and improve your quality of life. These treatments are accessible through the NHS and are typically offered prior to the prescription of anti-anxiety medication. Treatments for GAD include benzodiazepines and buspirone, which can both reduce the feeling of fear and anxiety. Antidepressants can also be used to treat GAD however their effects can be slower to be evident than those of benzodiazepines and buspirone.

You can also practice relaxation techniques, eating healthy foods and exercise to manage your worries. Being a part of a support group and discussing your concerns with friends or family members can be beneficial. Call an Australian health service if you are concerned that your anxiety is affecting the daily life of a family member or a friend. For more information on the services that are available go to healthdirect.