Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Everyone has experienced some level of anxiety or stress in their lives. However, it becomes a concern when that stress persists for days or even months. When anxiety significantly interferes with an individual’s daily life, it may be a sign of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
Generalized Anxiety Disorder is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders today.
Research indicates that 18-20% of adults experience anxiety disorders annually. GAD can develop in both childhood and adulthood. Though its symptoms overlap with those of panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other anxiety-related conditions, GAD remains a distinct disorder.
What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) experience persistent feelings of stress and anxiety, often without any apparent reason. If you have been worried for more than six months and find it difficult to control these feelings, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Generalized Anxiety Disorder is marked by ongoing fear, worry, and an overwhelming sense of being anxious. Individuals suffering from GAD are often overly concerned and can become fixated on issues that may seem irrelevant or trivial. This anxiety is frequently connected to aspects such as finances, family matters, health issues, or concerns about the future.
What Are the Different Causes of Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Experts have not pinpointed the exact causes of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), but several factors might contribute to its development. These include genetics, brain structure, life experiences, medication side effects, and medical conditions:
- Genetics: Like many other mental health and medical conditions, a person can be genetically predisposed to developing GAD if a family member has been diagnosed with the disorder.
- Brain Structure: Disturbances in certain nerve cell connections in the brain may affect the way the brain processes thoughts and emotions. Neurotransmitters, which help pass information between nerve cells, can be disrupted, leading to issues such as anxiety.
- Life Experiences: Traumatic events like abuse, trauma, the death of a loved one, divorce, or career challenges can trigger or exacerbate GAD symptoms.
- Medication Side Effects: Some medications or substance abuse can cause anxiety as a side effect, contributing to the development of GAD.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, can lead to anxiety due to hormonal imbalances.
Different Signs and Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
There are psychological and physical symptoms of GAD. The seriousness of the disorder differs from person to person.
Physical Symptoms
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Noticeably rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Muscle aches and tension
- Trembling or shaking
- Dry mouth
- Excessive sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Feeling nauseous
- Headaches
- Sensations of pins and needles
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia)
Psychological Symptoms
- Persistent worry and tension
- Intensified perception of problems compared to those without GAD
- Excessive overthinking of plans or solutions
- Pervasive worst-case scenario thinking
- Perception of events as threatening even when they aren’t
- General restlessness or feeling constantly on edge
- Difficulty handling uncertainty
- Fear of making incorrect decisions
- Trouble focusing or concentrating
- Increased irritability or crankiness
- Feeling like your mind goes blank
How Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Diagnosed?
Psychiatrists perform a detailed mental health evaluation to diagnose and treat GAD. They assess symptoms through medical examinations, diagnostic tests of blood and urine, and psychological questionnaires. GAD has been linked to thyroid disorders, heart disease, epilepsy, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), bipolar disorder, and caffeine confusion.
What Is the Treatment of GAD?
Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) includes medication, talk therapy, and self-care, which can make a difference depending on factors such as age, gender, and overall health of the individual.
Medication
- Antidepressants: SSRIs and SNRIs like escitalopram (Lexapro), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
- Anti-Anxiety Medications: Short-term relief options such as alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin)
Psychotherapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps change negative thought patterns.
- Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Includes yoga, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
- ACT – Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: Helps individuals manage distressing thoughts.
- Psychodynamic Psychotherapy: Based on Freud’s theories to address emotional responses.
- Supportive-Expressive Therapy: Encourages discussing relationships and behaviors.
What Is the Difference Between Generalized Anxiety Disorder & Anxiety?
Normal Anxiety:
- Anxiety can be managed.
- The severity of the situation has a direct impact on anxiety levels.
- Worry is related to specific situations.
- Coping techniques help in relaxation.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):
- GAD is more severe.
- Anxiety is disproportionate to situations.
- Constant worry about multiple aspects of life.
- Difficult to find relief from worry.
Common Myths About Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Myth: People with GAD are overdramatic.
- Fact: They cannot control their emotions.
- Myth: GAD isn’t serious.
- Fact: GAD can significantly impact daily life.
- Myth: People with GAD don’t socialize.
- Fact: Many individuals with GAD do engage in social activities.
How to Cope with Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Healthy Lifestyle: Reduce caffeine intake and ensure adequate sleep.
- Stress Management Techniques: Yoga, meditation, and exercise.
- Avoid Drugs and Alcohol: Substance use worsens symptoms.
- Join a Self-Help Group: Connecting with others can provide support.
How to Support Your Loved One with GAD
- Listen Actively: Avoid jumping to conclusions.
- Be an Accountability Partner: Help them engage in positive activities.
- Encourage Self-Care: Promote healthy habits like proper sleep and nutrition.
Why Choose Somorpon Foundation for the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
If you or someone you know is struggling with GAD, the Somorpon Foundation offers high-quality treatment to ensure a fast and effective recovery. Our individualized, evidence-based treatment plans address both physical and psychological well-being. We provide counseling to help patients identify the root causes of their anxiety, build resilience, and regain confidence. At Somorpon Foundation, we prioritize holistic healing to support our patients in leading a balanced and fulfilling life.
