Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Anxiety is an everyday part of life for most people. Worrying about things that might happen or feeling anxious about everyday things is natural. People may experience higher levels of anxiety during especially stressful periods or experiences. In most cases, people can manage anxiety and continue to function.

However, some people experience worry or anxiety that affects their functioning. Excessive worry can make working, caring for themselves, or maintaining healthy relationships challenging.

Some people who experience constant or high levels of anxiety may have generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). This article will explore GAD and how people can manage it. You will learn:

• The symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder
• What may cause GAD
• How to treat generalized anxiety disorder
• Where to find treatment for anxiety disorders

If you or someone you love struggles with excessive anxiety or worry, you are not alone. You can find treatment and support to manage your symptoms at Agape Behavioral Center.

Reach out to our experienced mental health providers to learn more about our programs. You may also schedule an intake assessment. Don’t wait another day for the treatment you need. Find compassionate treatment by contacting us today.

What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

It is normal to feel anxious from time to time. More than 15% of people experience anxiety or worry in a range of daily situations. This may include feeling nervous when preparing to give a presentation or have a difficult conversation. People may feel anxious about their finances, health, or relationships.

However, some people experience excessive worry without a clear cause. People with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) may feel more intense worry or experience anxiety more frequently. They may worry excessively about things that are not actually dangerous or threatening.

People with GAD typically experience a persistent sense of dread or anxiety that may last for months or years. People are most likely to develop GAD around the age of 30. It is less common in children, but it can occur. Generally, women are more likely to develop GAD than men.

An estimated 6.8 million adults or 3.1% of the U.S. popular suffers from GAD each year.

The Symptoms of GAD

Many types of anxiety disorders can affect daily life. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) can cause long-term symptoms that affect people’s functioning and quality of life.

Some of the most common symptoms of GAD include:

• Being unable to control worries or nervous feelings
• Feeling restless or agitated
• Finding it difficult to relax
• Experiencing physical symptoms without a clear cause, including headaches, muscle tension, unexplained pain, or digestive troubles
• Tremors or twitching
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Startling easily
• Worrying excessively about day-to-day things
• Having sleep problems, such as having trouble falling asleep or waking up too early
• Feeling tired

Generalized anxiety disorder in adults may cause people to worry about:

• Their performance at work or job security
• Household responsibilities
• Being late for events
• Their financial security
• Health problems
• The safety, health, and well-being of their children and other family members

Children with GAD may worry about:

• Their academic or sports performance
• Natural disasters, war, and other frightening events
• Their parents’ or siblings’ health

People with GAD may understand that they worry more than necessary. People with anxiety disorders, including GAD, may experience physical symptoms of anxiety, including pain. Some may develop panic attacks, which are scary events causing symptoms that include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Excessive sweating
• Chest pain or tightness
• Tingling or numbness in the hands or other areas of the body
• Lightheadedness
• Feelings of choking or not being able to breathe
• A sense of impending doom
• Worry about losing control or dying

A panic attack is not dangerous, but it can make people feel as though they are in grave danger. People who develop panic attacks may require treatment for panic disorder and GAD.

What Causes Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Mental health experts believe genetics can contribute to the likelihood of someone developing generalized anxiety disorder. Several areas of the brain and body affect a person’s feelings of anxiety. Researchers are learning more about how biological processes and the brain can affect anxiety levels.

Research has also found a link between stress, trauma, and anxiety. People who live in stressful environments or experience a traumatic event are more likely to develop an anxiety disorder.

How to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder

If you are experiencing excessive worry or increased anxiety, you should begin by telling your doctor about these symptoms. Your medical or mental healthcare provider will assess your needs and provide a diagnosis.

Treating anxiety consists of medications and talk therapy. Here is an overview of what to expect in treatment for GAD.

Medications

A doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. You may take antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications. You must work with your healthcare providers to find effective medications with minimal side effects.

Therapy

Talk therapy can help you understand and process anxiety and other feelings. Many people with anxiety disorders benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This type of therapy helps people identify and change harmful thoughts and behaviors.

Your GAD treatment plan may also include education, lifestyle changes, and other holistic therapies to reduce anxiety.

Find Anxiety Treatment in Fort Pierce Today

Learning more about GAD can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Reach out to the specialists at Agape Behavioral Center to learn more about our comprehensive anxiety treatment programs. You may also contact us with questions or to make an intake appointment.

References:

1. Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA): Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
2. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Generalized Anxiety Disorder
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder Among Adults: United States, 2019