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What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)? GAD can manifest in a number of ways, including sweating, clenched muscles and trouble concentrating. It can also affect your relationships and work. Symptoms tend to start at the age of 30. They can get worse when you are stressed or if you suffer from an illness that is physical. Psychotherapy and medications can help treat GAD. Cognitive behavioral therapy has been researched and is effective for most people who suffer from GAD. Symptoms GAD is a persistent state of extreme, unrealistic worry or tension. Worries are often about work, money, health, school, family and other things that could never happen. These thoughts can be overwhelming and can disrupt everyday life. GAD can also cause physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomachaches. While everyone experiences anxiety from time to time If these feelings become excessive and are hindering you from living an ordinary life or affecting relationships, then it's time to visit your doctor. They will be able to assess your symptoms, ask about your lifestyle and previous experiences to determine whether you have GAD. Certain people are genetically inclined to develop GAD. They could also be more susceptible due to a medical condition such as an autoimmune condition or thyroid problem. Drugs and alcohol can also alter the way your brain transmits signals. It is essential to receive the correct diagnosis as early treatment is essential for the best outcome. Most people can manage symptoms using a combination therapy and medication. Your doctor might prescribe medication to lessen anxiety, such a selective serotonin-reuptake inhibits or serotonin-norepinephrine-reuptake inhibits for adults and buspirone for children. They may take several weeks to begin working. They might also recommend the use of benzodiazepines for a short-term period that provide immediate relief, but they are also highly addictive and should be used only under the supervision of a physician. Psychotherapy teaches you to change the negative thought patterns that cause anxiety and fears. Cognitive control strategies allow you to evaluate your fears objectively and alter your thoughts so that you can confront them instead of avoiding them or trying to get rid of them. Your therapist may suggest a mix of therapies to give you the greatest chance of a successful recovery. Regular exercise and staying socially active can also help. Getting 30 minutes of exercise a day and making sure you stay connected with your friends will make you feel more at ease and calm. Avoid alcohol and over-the-counter drugs as many contain chemicals that can increase your anxiety. Remember that GAD is extremely common and highly treatable. Diagnosis GAD is characterized by a persistent excessive, unrealistic worry. This type of worry can be difficult to control. The worry can affect their daily activities and relationships. It could also cause physical symptoms like a fast heartbeat, trembling, or fatigue. The anxiety can be triggered by stress, a medical condition or life-changing event. It is not similar to depression or phobias, which are more specific, and have a shorter duration of time. GAD typically begins in adolescence or childhood and can continue throughout adulthood. The symptoms can be very severe however, they can improve when treated. Doctors diagnose GAD when someone is having trouble controlling their anxieties and is suffering every day for at least six months. They are often worried about health, money, work or family and usually anticipate the worst. They also feel an overall sense of dread or anxiety, which can be more difficult to identify than other emotions like depression or a fear. It's normal to be anxious at times however when your anxiety is affecting your relationships or daily routine you should seek assistance. GAD is treatable as are other anxiety disorders. Talking with an expert in mental health can be helpful. So can learning techniques for managing stress and making lifestyle adjustments. Researchers are investigating the causes of GAD and the biological processes that cause it. GAD is thought to be the result of genetic factors and traumatizing events. The person's temperament is a factor, and this includes their tendency to be shy or timid is also a factor in. GAD is more prevalent in those who suffer from depression or other mental disorders. Treatment Everyone feels anxious or worried at times, and there are often good reasons to be concerned about health, money school, family, work or other issues of daily life. But people with GAD experience these feelings nearly all the time. They aren't able to put their worries in perspective, and they always anticipate the worst. This makes it difficult for them to get through the day and interferes with school, work and relationships. GAD is an illness of the mind, but there are treatments and medications therapies available to help with the symptoms. Start by speaking to your GP. www.iampsychiatry.com can conduct a mental health screening and recommend you to a psychologist or psychiatrist. In GAD the brain's natural chemicals (including serotonin and dopamine) don't function normally. They are less effective in transmitting messages between cells. This can cause feelings of anxiety and worry. Genetic and biological factors may also make some people more susceptible to GAD. The first step in treating GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This teaches you strategies to control your anxiety. It involves psychoeducation, changing negative thought patterns and gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking situations. Some patients suffering from severe symptoms require medication along with CBT. These medicines are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). They include escitalopram (Lexapro) duloxetine (Cymbalta) and Venlafaxine (Effexor XR). GAD symptoms respond well to treatment but they can recur if treatment removed. You can lessen the risk of return by taking your medication as prescribed and continuing with your CBT. It's important to have the support of others. Find someone you can talk to face-to-face on a regular basis about your feelings and be sure they are capable of listening without judgement or criticism. This person can be an intimate partner, a friend, family member or therapist. Some people with GAD are prescribed other treatments or supplements, such as kava St John's Wort and hydroxytryptophan. These supplements have not been proven to improve GAD and may cause side effects for example, liver damage. Prevention Although some people may be hesitant to accept that their anxiety is out of control, getting help early is the best way to reduce symptoms. Treatment can include medication, psychotherapy and lifestyle changes. It is important to exercise for at minimum 30 minutes per day, eat an appropriate diet and remain in contact with other people. It is also important to avoid over-the-counter medicines and herbal remedies since they can increase anxiety. The underlying causes of GAD are a complex issue. It is believed that they are linked to genes as well as biological processes that occur in the body and brain, and environmental factors. GAD can run in families, and it seems that certain people are at greater risk for developing the condition. GAD is more common in people who have a stifling, negative temperament or who tend to fear the worst outcome in situations. Other risk factors include traumatizing events or major life changes, such as divorce, moving house, or chronic medical conditions. GAD can cause a variety of symptoms, and the severity varies from one person to another. If you are experiencing anxiety that is affecting your work or in your social life, it is essential to visit your GP as soon as possible. Your GP will inquire about your general well-being and any recent life events. They will then refer you to an expert in mental health for an assessment. Treatment for GAD often includes psychotherapy and medication. Talking therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that alter the way you think and behave are regarded as one of the most effective treatments for GAD. It is also essential to find a therapist that is experienced in treating GAD. GPs can also refer you to a talking therapy service or provide you advice and support themselves. Apart from these treatments lifestyle changes, relaxation and techniques can help improve your symptoms. It is also helpful to prioritize your tasks to ensure that you do not feel overwhelmed.