Definition:
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder that is marked by excessive, uncontrollable and often irrational worry about everyday things, which is disproportionate to the actual source of worry. This excessive worry often interferes with daily functioning, as individuals suffering GAD usually catastrophise, anticipate disaster, and are overly concerned about everyday matters such as health issues, money, family problems, friend problems or work difficulties.
Diagnosis:
The following critera must be met: Excessive anxiety and worry every day for at least six months; difficulty managing anxiety; anxiety that is linked with several specific symptoms, such as feeling keyed up, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension and sleep disturbances; and anxiety that causes significant distress or impairment in daily life.
Treatment:
The two main treatments for generalized anxiety disorder are medications and psychotherapy, either alone or together. It may take some trial and error to discover which treatment works best for the patient and which he or she is most comfortable with.
Symptoms and Signs:
GAD symptoms may include: restlessness; feeling of being keyed up or on edge; feeling a lump in the throat; difficulty concetrating; fatigue; irritability; impatience; being easily distracted; and muscle tension.
Causes:
As with many mental health conditions, what causes generalized anxiety disorder isn't fully known or understood. Researchers believe that it may involve naturally occurring chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters, like serotonin and norepinephrine.
:
generalizedanxietydisorder
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