Quick Rundown On Generalized Anxiety Disorder And What To Do To Manage It

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Worrying is a normal part of our lives. It’s OK to have concerns about such things as job interviews, exams, voyages on planes, or reports. But when anxiety takes over your life and you worry most of the time without any specific reason, you need professional help to deal with it.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common mental health condition; its name speaks for itself – if you suffer from GAD, you worry excessively about many things that aren’t supposed to cause so much concern. The onset of GAD mostly happens in childhood or adolescence but can also exist in adulthood. The condition is often accompanied by other mental problems, such as depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance abuse. It includes both mental and physical symptoms.

Mental symptoms include:

- constant worrying that is disproportionate to its cause;

- inability to relax as well as being restless and edgy;

- trouble concentrating;

- fear of making decisions.

People who suffer from GAD are usually aware that their anxiety is irrational, but they can’t stop worrying on their own.

Physical symptoms of GAD include:

- tiredness;

- headaches and muscle aches;

- trembling and fidgeting;

- difficulty while swallowing;

- sleep problems;

- increased perspiration;

- increased heart rate.

If you experience these symptoms, talk to your doctor – he or she can refer you to a mental health professional.

The physical symptoms described above may be a sign of some other condition; thus, you should talk to your doctor if you have them.

It’s unclear what exactly causes GAD, but expert think that these factors may represent some reasons:

- family history of anxiety disorders;

- imbalance of certain neurotransmitters;

- emotional trauma.

Generalized anxiety disorder is usually treated with a form of psychotherapy called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications. Drugs used to treat anxiety include:

- selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs);

- serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs);

- other serotonergic medication;

- benzodiazepines.

In addition to treatment, you can take steps that will help you better manage your condition:

- cut down on substances, such as caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol; they can all make your anxiety worse;

- try to stick to a stable sleep schedule and get enough sleep every night; if you find it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep, talk to your doctor;

- stick to a healthy, balanced diet and get enough exercise;

- try relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation; they are known to be an effective method to relieve anxiety.