Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
is characterized by 6 months or more of chronic, exaggerated
worry and tension that is unfounded or much more severe than
the normal anxiety most people experience. People with this
disorder usually expect the worst; they worry excessively
about money, health, family, or work, even when there are
no signs of trouble. They are unable to relax and often suffer
from insomnia. Many people with GAD also have physical symptoms,
such as fatigue, trembling, muscle tension, headaches, irritability,
or hot flashes.
Fortunately, through research supported by
the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), effective
treatments have been developed to help people with GAD.
How Common is GAD?
- About 2.8% of the U.S. population (4 million
Americans) have GAD during a year's time.
- GAD most often strikes people in childhood
or adolescence, but can begin in adulthood, too. It affects
women more often than men.
What Causes GAD?
Some research suggests that GAD may
run in families and it may also grow worse during stress.
GAD usually begins at an earlier age and symptoms may manifest
themselves more slowly than in most other anxiety disorders.
What Treatments Are Available for GAD?
Treatments for GAD include medications
and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Can People with GAD Also Have Other
Physical and Emotional Illnesses?
Research shows that GAD often coexist
with depression, substance abuse, or other anxiety disorders.
Other conditions associated with stress, such as irritable
bowel syndrome, often accompany GAD. Patients with physical
symptoms such as insomnia or headaches should also tell their
doctors about their feelings of worry and tension. This will
help the patient's health care provider to recognize that
the person is suffering, from GAD.
Also read about:
- - Coping with Anxiety
- - Stress and Anxiety
- - Panic Attacks
Do you need help?
If you, or someone you love is depressed and contemplating suicide, PLEASE
get some HELP! If you need help
NOW, call the SA/VE Suicide Hotline at:
1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
National Hotline |
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