Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD can also be treated by medication and psychotherapy. The use of medication should be limited to for short periods to alleviate symptoms and should always be followed by therapy.
Regular exercise is an effective treatment for anxiety. It lowers stress hormones and increases the levels of feel good chemicals in the brain. It also assists in distracting people from their worries.
Symptoms
Many people suffer from anxiety from time to the time. This is particularly true when they are stressed. If your anxiety is persistent and continuous that it becomes difficult to relax or function, you could have a generalized anxiety disorder.
People suffering from GAD experience excessive worry and anxiety for no apparent reason. They worry about a variety of things, including their work and school performance as well as the security of their family members, upcoming events and natural disasters. They feel a sense of impending doom and have difficulty in focusing or sleeping.
The signs of GAD typically begin in childhood or adolescence and are more common in women than men. They can last into adulthood and are often associated with depression or other mental disorders.
You may also have other physical symptoms of anxiety, such as headaches, muscle tension or stomach upset. Consult your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms. They will ask questions to be sure that there isn't something else the cause and will conduct an examination.
GAD is treatable. Psychotherapy and medication are two options for treatment. Self-help techniques like relaxation, mindfulness meditation and exercise can be helpful.
Anxiety disorders comprise a range of conditions that impact your mood and behaviour like panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, particular phobias, social anxiety disorder separation anxiety disorder , and obsessive compulsive disorder. Certain researchers believe that genetics as well as temperament and environmental factors are responsible for the onset of anxiety disorders.
While anyone can suffer from anxiety disorders however, it is more prevalent in children and adolescents. Some people might have a personality that makes them more prone to suffer from anxiety disorders or suffer from a history of traumatic experiences or other mental illnesses. If you're a member of a family with a history of anxiety, it is crucial to seek help. The earlier the diagnosis and treatment is started and completed, the less severe your symptoms will be.
Treatment
Everyone experiences anxiety at times however GAD is a constant state of anxiety and dread that interferes with your daily routine. GAD makes you feel anxious about a wide range of situations and issues not just one thing. It can make you unable to focus at work or school and affect your health. You might avoid social events and activities due to feelings of anxiety or fear.
The use of psychotherapy and medication has been shown to reduce symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Treatment choices are based on how much the symptoms are affecting your daily life and any other conditions you may be suffering from.
The first step is to talk with your doctor about the issue. Discuss with your doctor the symptoms you're experiencing, as well as how long they've been present and how serious they are. Your doctor will conduct an examination and ask you questions. They will determine whether you have any other health problems like diabetes or heart disease, and will inquire about your family history of mental illness.
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is the main treatment for anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy has been proven to be the most effective type of psychotherapy. This kind of therapy teaches you new ways of thinking and acting to reduce anxiety. It takes lots of effort, but with practice it can be extremely beneficial.
GAD is treated with antidepressants. Examples include escitalopram (Lexapro), duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor XR). These medications are very effective and come with no negative side effects, especially when used for the recommended duration. There are a few natural remedies that can aid, such as valerian and kava, but there is not enough evidence to support these claims and they may interact with other medicines, such as SSRIs.
It is essential to take your child to a mental health professional to determine the cause and manage anxiety. Consult your physician for advice if your child's symptoms of anxiety affect their school, family life, or social life.
Diagnosis
GAD is typically diagnosed when a person is experiencing excessive, uncontrollable worry on more days than not for at least six months. This is distinct from the occasional feelings of anxiety that is normal for most people at specific times. People suffering from GAD frequently anticipate disaster and are overly worried about health, money and family, work and other personal issues. They may be restless, tired or unable to concentrate. Some signs of GAD include headaches, muscle tension, insomnia, and irritability. GAD can also trigger heart palpitations or stomach upset.
Your doctor will inquire about your current and previous symptoms to help diagnose GAD. Your doctor will ask about your family background. Your doctor will then conduct a physical examination. The doctor will search for other health problems such as respiratory or heart diseases. Your doctor might recommend an CT scan, MRI or other imaging tests to rule out any other health issues.
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is often used to treat GAD. Your doctor might recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) which is a form of psychotherapy that is extensively studied. CBT teaches new ways to think, behave and react to situations, which can make you feel less anxious. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to ease anxiety. In general, these medications are only recommended for short-term GAD treatment.
People suffering from GAD are at risk of developing a mood disorder such as depression. They are also at greater risk of developing mental health problems like bipolar disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD), or post-traumatic stress disorder.
GAD is not caused by one single cause. Life experiences, genetics and chronic medical conditions are likely to all play a role in the development of GAD. It is crucial to seek help early because anxiety can get worse as time passes. Consult your GP if anxiety is affecting daily functioning for you or a family member, and has lasted more than six months. People with anxiety can seek assistance from their GP or psychologist.
Prevention
Everyone feels anxious from time to time particularly when they are concerned about an event or situation. If this feeling persists and interferes with daily life, it could be a sign that you have a generalized anxiety disorder. If your symptoms are affecting your daily activities, it's important to seek help. Treatment options for GAD include medications, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes.
Although it's unclear what causes GAD exactly, genetics and stressful situations may be factors. GAD is more common in people with an underlying depression or other mental health conditions. GAD may also affect those who are naturally timid or shy, or who have suffered a trauma in their lives.
GAD is characterized by excessive and unrealistic stress or anxiety that lasts for at minimum six months. This stress or anxiety could be related to a variety of topics like work, family, finances health, and many other things. GAD sufferers often have trouble identifying the source of their anxiety and their concerns are to be sporadic.
Treatment for GAD can be beneficial. The first step is to talk to your healthcare provider or GP about your symptoms. They will take a full medical history and conduct physical examination. They might refer you to a psychiatrist or a specialist to further evaluate and treatment.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other psychological therapies can help you manage your anxieties and improve the quality of your life. These treatments are offered through the NHS and are typically offered prior to the time that anti-anxiety medications are prescribed. Medications used to treat GAD include benzodiazepines as well as buspirone, which can both reduce the feelings of dread and anxiety. Antidepressants are often used to treat GAD as well, but they may take longer than benzodiazepines and buspirone to start working.
You can also explore relaxation techniques, eating healthy foods and exercise to manage your anxiety. Having a support network and talking about your worries with family or friends can also be helpful. If you feel that your anxiety is impacting your daily life or the wellbeing of a family member or friend you can call an Australian health service line. For more information about the services available on healthdirect, click here.