Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition generally marked by constant and excessive concern or anxiety about routine events or activities. People with GAD often struggle to control their worry and may feel anxious even when there is no apparent reason to be worried.
Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Excessive anxiety and worry (apprehensive expectation), occurring more days than not for at least 6 months, about a number of events or activities (such as work or school performance).
- The individual finds it difficult to control the worry.
- The anxiety and worry are associated with three (or more) of the following six symptoms (with at least some symptoms having been present for more days than not for the past 6 months):
- Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge.
- Being easily fatigued.
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank.
- Irritability.
- Muscle tension.
- Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless, unsatisfying sleep).
- The anxiety, worry, or physical symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
- The disturbance is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance (e.g., a drug of abuse, a medication) or another medical condition (e.g., hyperthyroidism).
- The disturbance is not better explained by another mental disorder (e.g., anxiety or worry about having panic attacks in panic disorder, negative evaluation in social anxiety disorder [social phobia], contamination or other obsessions in obsessive-compulsive disorder, separation from attachment figures in separation anxiety disorder, reminders of traumatic events in posttraumatic stress disorder, gaining weight in anorexia nervosa, physical complaints in somatic symptom disorder, perceived appearance flaws in body dysmorphic disorder, having a serious illness in illness anxiety disorder, or the content of delusional beliefs in schizophrenia or delusional disorder).
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Causes of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
The exact causes of GAD are not well understood, but researchers believe that there are several factors that may contribute to the development of such disorders.
- One potential cause of GAD is believed to be genetics. Studies have shown that patients who have a family history of anxiety disorders are more susceptible to developing GAD. This suggests that there may be genetic factors that can make some people more vulnerable to getting the disorder. However, the specific genes and genetic mechanisms that contribute to GAD are not yet known completely.
- Brain chemistry is another potential contributing factor to GAD. Researchers believe that imbalances in certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, may play a role in the development of the disorder in some patients. These imbalances may be brought on by genetic factors, environmental factors, or a combination of both.
- Environmental factors, such as trauma, abuse, stressful life events, or accidents can also trigger the onset of GAD. These factors may cause a person to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope with everyday stressors, leading to the development of persistent worrisome and anxiety. Stressful life events, such as financial problems, relationship difficulties, or health concerns, may also contribute to the development of GAD.
- Personality factors may also be influential in the development of GAD. Individuals with certain personality traits, such as a tendency towards perfectionism, self-criticism, and negative thinking, are more prone to developing GAD. These traits may cause a person to worry excessively and feel anxious about basic activities on a daily basis.
- Finally, certain chronic illnesses can too be an anxiety-triggering factor, such as thyroid problems, heart disease, or respiratory disorders, which can cause symptoms of anxiety that can be mistaken for GAD. In some cases, these medical conditions can flare up GAD or exacerbate existing symptoms.
Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder
There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals with a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The appropriate treatment plan for a patient will depend on the severity of their symptoms, their individual needs, and their personal preferences. Some common treatment options for GAD include:
- Psychotherapy: Different forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is an effective methods in treating GAD. CBT helps individuals learn to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that fuel their anxiety. Other forms of therapy, such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) or mindfulness-based therapies, are also helpful in managing symptoms of GAD.
- Medication: Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), can help treat GAD. Anti-anxiety medications, such as benzodiazepines, are also prescribed for short-term relief of symptoms. However, these medications can be habit-forming and are typically only used for a short period.
- Relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery, are some effective strategies in managing symptoms of GAD. These techniques can help patients learn to calm their minds and body and reduce feelings of anxiety.
- Lifestyle changes: Making certain lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep are a few extremely helpful ways in managing symptoms of GAD. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, such as yoga or meditation, may also be beneficial.
- Support groups: Joining a support group or seeking support from family and friends might help in managing symptoms of GAD. Support groups provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to connect with others who are experiencing similar difficulties in life and to learn new coping strategies together.
GAD can be a chronic condition, and if ignored or left untreated, it can interfere with daily life and lead to other problems such as depression, substance abuse, and other anxiety disorders.
It’s important to work with a mental health professional to develop a specialized treatment plan for GAD. Treatment plans may involve a combination of these approaches and may be modified as per the patient’s changing needs.
It’s time you break through the grip of Generalized Anxiety Disorder with the right treatment and support. Book an appointment to talk to a specialist for you or a loved one toward a brighter tomorrow.
