Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD can be treated with psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medication. It is recommended to only use medication temporarily to treat symptoms and should be followed by therapy.
Regular exercise is an effective treatment for anxiety. It lowers stress hormones and boosts feel good chemicals in the brain. It also helps to distract people from their worries.
Signs and symptoms
Many people have anxiety from time the time. This is especially true when they are stressed. However, if your anxiety is persistent and constant, making it hard to be relaxed or productive you could be suffering from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
GAD is characterized by extreme worry and feelings apprehensive anticipation without any apparent reason. They worry about many things, like their work or school performance and the safety and well-being of their family members, as well as future events. They have a feeling that doom is imminent and have trouble concentrating or sleeping.
GAD symptoms are more frequent for women than men and typically begin in the adolescent or childhood years. They can persist throughout adulthood and are frequently caused by depression or other mental disorders.
You may also experience other physical symptoms, such as headaches, muscle tension or stomach upset. If you are experiencing these symptoms, speak to your doctor. They will ask you questions to confirm that there isn't something other than the symptoms, and perform a physical examination.
GAD can be treated. Psychotherapy and medication are two treatment options. Self-help techniques like meditation, relaxation, and exercise meditation also can help.
Anxiety disorders comprise a range of conditions that affect your mood and behavior like panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias, social anxiety disorder separation anxiety disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. Some researchers believe that genetics as well as temperament and environmental factors are the main causes for the development of anxiety disorders.
An anxiety disorder can be a problem for everyone, but it is more common among teenagers and children. Certain individuals are more susceptible to anxiety disorders because of their temperament, while others have a history with mental illness or trauma. If you're a parent with a history of anxiety, it is essential to seek treatment. The earlier you get treatment and diagnosis, the less severe the symptoms will be.
Treatment
Everyone experiences anxiety every now and then However, for those with GAD, anxiety is an ongoing state of anxiety and dread that impedes their daily lives. GAD makes you feel anxious about a broad range of issues and situations and not just one issue. It can make you unable to concentrate at work or school and can impact your health. You might avoid social situations and activities because of anxiety or fear.
Numerous treatments have been proven to lessen the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, including psychotherapy and medication. Treatment decisions are made according to the severity of your symptoms and any other medical conditions you might have.
The first step is to talk with your doctor about the issue. You must inform your doctor about your symptoms as well as the length of time they've been present and how serious they are. Your doctor will perform an examination and ask you questions. They will also look for other health issues like heart disease or diabetes and inquire about any mental illness in your family.
Talk therapy or psychotherapy is the main treatment of anxiety disorders . Cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be the most effective form of psychotherapy. This kind of therapy helps you learn new ways of thinking and behaving to eliminate your anxiety. It is a lot of hard work but it can be very beneficial with practice.
GAD is treated by antidepressants. Examples include duloxetine, escitalopram and Venlafaxine. These drugs are extremely efficient and have no side effects, especially when taken for the recommended time. There are a few natural remedies that can help, like valerian and kava. However, there isn't enough evidence to support these claims. Additionally, they can interact with certain medications, like SSRIs.
If your child is suffering from anxiety, it's important to see an expert in mental health to determine the cause and treatment. Discuss with your doctor for advice if your child's symptoms of anxiety impact their school, family life, or social life.
Diagnosis
GAD is usually diagnosed when a person experiences extreme, uncontrollable worry more days than they do for at least six months. This is not the normal feeling of anxiety during certain times that a majority of people have. People with GAD tend to be anxious about money, health and family issues, as well as other personal matters. They might be anxious and tired, or find it difficult to concentrate. GAD can cause muscle tension, headaches and sleep problems. GAD can also trigger stomach upset or heart palpitations.
To diagnose GAD Your doctor will inquire about your previous and current symptoms. Your doctor will also inquire about your family history. Your doctor will then conduct an examination of your body. The doctor will search for other health conditions like respiratory or heart diseases. Your doctor may suggest an imaging test, such as an CT scan or an MRI to rule out other health problems.
GAD is treated using talk therapy (psychotherapy). Your doctor may suggest cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a well-studied form of psychotherapy. CBT provides you with new ways of thinking, acting and reacting to events that can help you feel less anxious and worried. Your doctor might prescribe medication to help reduce anxiety. Medications are generally only recommended as a short-term treatment for GAD.
People with GAD are at risk for developing a mood disorder like depression. They are also at risk of developing other mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder as well as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and post-traumatic stress disorder.
GAD is not caused by a single cause. It is likely that genetics, life events, and chronic medical illnesses all contribute to the development of GAD. It is crucial to seek help early since anxiety can become worse as time passes. Talk to your GP in the event that you or a loved one suffers from anxiety symptoms that hinder your daily functioning and last more than 6 months. Patients suffering from anxiety should seek help from their physician or psychologist, or any other mental health professionals.
Prevention
Everyone feels anxious at times, especially when they are concerned about a particular circumstance or event. However, when this feeling becomes constant and affects everyday life, it could be a sign of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). If your symptoms are affecting your daily activities, it's important to seek help. Treatment options for GAD include medications, psychotherapy and lifestyle adjustments.
Although it's not clear what causes GAD specifically stress, genetics and stress could be a factor. GAD is more common in people with a history of depression and other mental health issues. GAD can also affect people who are naturally timid or shy, or who have suffered a trauma in their life.
GAD is characterised by excessive and unreasonable anxiety or worry that lasts for at minimum six months. The tension or worry could be triggered by a variety of issues, such as family, work health, money, and other issues. People suffering from GAD often can't identify the root of their anxiety, and their worries appear to fluctuate from one concern to the next.
Treatment for GAD is efficient. The first step is to speak to your healthcare provider or GP about your symptoms. They will collect a complete medical history and do physical examination. They may refer you to an additional examination or treatment to specialists or psychiatrists.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) along with other psychological therapies, can help you manage your anxiety and improve the quality of your life. These treatments are provided by the NHS and are typically given before anti-anxiety medication is prescribed. Buspirone and benzodiazepines are two drugs that can be used to treat GAD. They both reduce anxiety and dread. Antidepressants can also be utilized to treat GAD, but their effects can be slower to be felt than those of benzodiazepines and buspirone.
You can also utilize relaxation techniques, healthy eating and exercise to ease your worries. Talking to friends and family about your worries can be beneficial. Call an Australian health service if your anxiety is affecting the daily life of the family member or friend. Healthdirect has more information on the services available.