Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD can be treated using psychotherapy (talk therapy) and medications. The use of medication is usually temporarily to ease symptoms and should be followed by therapy.
Regular exercise is a great treatment for anxiety. It reduces stress hormones and increases the levels of feel good chemicals in the brain. It also assists in distracting people from their worries.
Signs and symptoms
Many people experience anxiety at times, especially when they are under stress. If your anxiety is constant and persistent, making it difficult to function or relax you could be suffering from a generalized anxiety disorder.
GAD is characterized by extreme anxiety and fear for no reason. They are worried about a range of things, such as their school and job performance and the safety of family members, future catastrophes and events. They feel a sense that their fate is near and are unable to concentrate or sleeping.
GAD symptoms are more frequent in women than in men and typically begin in the adolescent or childhood years. They can persist into adulthood, often associated with depression and other mental health disorders.
There are other physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension or stomach upset. Talk to your doctor if you notice these symptoms. They will ask questions to be sure that something else isn't responsible for them and conduct a physical exam.
GAD is treatable. Psychotherapy and medication are two treatment options. Self-help strategies such as meditation, relaxation, and exercise meditation also can help.
Anxiety disorders encompass a variety of disorders that can affect your mood and behavior, including panic disorder that is without or with agoraphobia; phobias specific to you; social anxiety disorder as well as separation anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Some researchers believe that genetics, temperament and environmental factors are the main contributors to the development of these conditions.
An anxiety disorder can be experienced by everyone, but it is more common among adolescents and children. Some people may have a temperament that makes them more prone to be affected and others may have a history of traumatic experiences or other mental disorders. If you're a parent with a history of anxiety, it's essential to seek treatment. The earlier diagnosis and treatment is initiated more minimal your symptoms will be.
Treatment
Everyone experiences anxiety at times However, for those with GAD anxiety is an ongoing feeling of anxiety and dread that impedes their daily lives. GAD can make you feel anxious about a variety of things. It can cause you to be unable to concentrate at school or work, and it can affect your health. It can also cause you to avoid social events or activities because of anxiety and fear.
Psychotherapy and medication have been proven to reduce the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Treatment decisions are made according to the severity of your symptoms as well as any other conditions that you might be suffering from.
First, you should discuss with your doctor about your problem. Discuss with your doctor the symptoms you're experiencing, how long they've been present, and how serious they are. Your doctor will perform an examination and ask you questions. They will determine if you have other health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease, and will ask about your family history of mental illness.
Talk therapy or psychotherapy is the primary treatment for anxiety disorders. Many forms of psychotherapy have been shown to help, however cognitive behavioral therapy is the most efficient. This type of therapy teaches you various ways of thinking and acting to get rid of anxiety. It's a lot of hard work however it can be extremely beneficial with practice.
GAD is treated with antidepressants. Examples include duloxetine, escitalopram and venlafaxine. These drugs are extremely efficient and have no negative side effects, especially when used for the recommended time. There are a few natural remedies that can help, like valerian and kava, however there is not enough evidence to support these claims and they can interact with certain medicines, such as SSRIs.
It is essential to take your child to a mental health professional to determine the cause and manage anxiety. Talk to your doctor for advice if your child's symptoms of anxiety affect their school, family life, or social life.
Diagnosis
GAD is diagnosed when someone experiences an excessive and uncontrollable worry on a regular basis for at least six months. This is not the normal feeling of anxiety at certain times that many people have. People with GAD are usually worried about their finances, health and family issues, work and other personal matters. They may have trouble concentration and may be tired or restless. Some signs of GAD include muscle tension, headaches, difficulty sleeping and irritation. People suffering from GAD also might experience heart palpitations and stomach upset.
Your doctor will inquire about your present and previous symptoms to help diagnose GAD. Your doctor will inquire about your family background. Your doctor will perform an examination for physical health. The doctor will search for other health problems such as respiratory or heart diseases. Your doctor may suggest an imaging test like a CT scan or an MRI to rule out any other health problems.
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is frequently used to treat GAD. Your doctor may recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of psychotherapy that is extensively studied. CBT offers new ways to think, behave, and react to situations, which can help you feel less anxious. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to ease anxiety. In general, these medications are only advised for short-term GAD treatment.
People with GAD are at risk of developing a mood disorder such as depression. They also are at greater risk of developing mental health conditions such as bipolar, attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) or post-traumatic distress disorder.
GAD is not caused by a single factor. Genetics, life experiences, and chronic medical illnesses are likely to all contribute to the development of GAD. Getting help early is important since anxiety can become worse as time passes. Speak to your GP in the event that anxiety is affecting daily functioning for you or a family member, and lasts for more than six months. People with anxiety should seek out help from their doctor or psychologist, or another mental health professionals.
The following is a list of preventions.
Everyone feels anxious at times and this is especially true when worried about a particular situation or event. If disorders anxiety is persistent and interferes with daily life, it could indicate that you have generalised anxiety disorder. If your symptoms hinder your daily activities, it's essential to seek assistance. Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are all options for treating GAD.
While it isn't known exactly what causes GAD, genetics and stress could be factors. People with a family history of depression or other mental health disorders are more likely to develop GAD. GAD may also affect those who are naturally timid or shy, or who have had a traumatizing experience in their life.
The main symptom of GAD is excessive and unrealistic worry or tension, typically for at least 6 months. The tension or worry could be triggered by a variety of topics, including family, work, money, health and other concerns. GAD sufferers are often unable to finding the cause of their anxiety and their concerns are sporadic.
Treatment for GAD is effective. The first step is to talk to a doctor or healthcare provider about your symptoms. They will request an extensive medical history and perform an exam. They might refer you to a specialist or psychiatrist for further evaluation and treatment.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other psychotherapies can help you manage your anxiety and improve your quality of life. These treatments are offered through the NHS and are typically provided before anti-anxiety medications are prescribed. Treatments for GAD include benzodiazepines and buspirone, both of which reduce the feelings of dread and worry. Antidepressants are sometimes used to treat GAD too, but they may take longer than benzodiazepines or buspirone before they begin to work.
You can also try relaxation techniques, eating healthy foods and exercise to ease your worries. Having a support network and discussing your concerns with friends or family members can be beneficial. If you believe that your anxiety is affecting your life, or the wellbeing of a family member or friend, call an Australian health service line. Visit healthdirect for more information on the services available.