Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD can be treated with medication and psychotherapy. The use of medication is usually temporarily to ease symptoms and should be followed by therapy.
Regular exercise is an effective treatment for anxiety. It reduces stress hormones and increases the positive chemicals in the brain. It also aids people to forget their worries.
Symptoms
Many people feel anxious at times, especially when they are under stress. But if panic anxiety disorder seems constant and persistent and makes it difficult to be relaxed or productive, you may have generalised anxiety disorder (GAD).
People suffering from GAD experience excessive worry and a sense of anxiety without a reason. They worry about many things, including their job or school performance and the safety and well-being of their family members, and future events. They feel a sense that the end is near and have trouble concentrating or sleeping.
GAD symptoms are more common in women than men and often start during childhood or adolescence. They can last into adulthood, and are often accompanied by depression and other mental health issues.
You might also experience other physical symptoms, such as muscle tension, headaches and stomach upset. If you are experiencing these symptoms, speak to your doctor. They will ask questions to be sure that there isn't something else the cause and will conduct a physical exam.
GAD is a condition that can be treated. Treatment options include psychotherapy and medication. Self-help strategies such as meditation, relaxation, and exercise meditation can also help.
Anxiety disorders are a group of conditions that affect your mood and behavior, such as panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias and social anxiety disorders, separation anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder. Certain researchers believe that genetics and temperament as well as environmental factors are the main causes for the onset of anxiety disorders.
An anxiety disorder can affect anyone, but it is more prevalent in teenagers and children. Certain people are more prone to anxiety disorders because of their temperament, while others have a history of trauma or mental illness. If you have a family history of anxiety, it is important to seek care. The earlier you get treatment and diagnosis, the less severe the symptoms will be.
Treatment
Everyone experiences anxiety every now and then, but for people with GAD anxiety is an ongoing feeling of anxiety and dread that impedes their lives. GAD can make you feel stressed about a myriad of things. It can cause you to be unable to focus at work or school, and it can affect your health. It can cause you to avoid social situations or activities because of feelings of fear and dread.
The use of psychotherapy and medication has been shown to reduce symptoms of generalized anxious disorder. Treatment choices are based on how the symptoms impact your daily life and any other conditions you may have.
First, you should discuss with your doctor about the issue. You should tell your doctor about your symptoms as well as the length of time they've been there and how serious they are. Your doctor will perform an examination and ask you questions. They will determine whether you have any other health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease, and will ask about your family history of mental illness.
Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is the main treatment for anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be the most effective type of psychotherapy. This type of therapy helps you learn new ways of thinking and behaving to eliminate your anxiety. It's an intense and demanding task but it can be extremely beneficial with practice.
GAD is treated by 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 taken for the recommended length of duration. Natural remedies such as valerian and kava can help, but there are not enough studies to support their claims. They can also interact with certain medications, such as SSRIs.
If your child suffers from anxiety, it is crucial to see a mental health professional to determine the cause and treatment. Consult your physician for advice if your child's symptoms of anxiety impact their school, family or social life.
Diagnosis
GAD is typically diagnosed when a person is experiencing extreme, uncontrollable worry more days than they do for at least six months. This is different from the occasional feeling of anxiety which is normal for the majority of people at specific times. People suffering from GAD tend to be worried about their finances, health and family issues, as well as other personal issues. They may be restless and tired, or find it difficult to concentrate. The symptoms of GAD include muscle tension, headaches sleep problems, and irritability. GAD can also cause stomach upset or heart palpitations.
To determine if you have GAD The doctor will ask about your past and current symptoms. Your doctor will also ask about your family history. Your doctor will then conduct a physical examination. He or she will look for other health conditions like heart disease or respiratory problems. Your doctor may recommend an imaging test like a CT scan or an MRI to rule out other health issues.
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is commonly used to treat GAD. Your doctor might recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that is extensively researched. CBT provides you with new ways of thinking, behaving and reacting to situations that make you less anxious and stressed. Your doctor might prescribe medication to help reduce anxiety. They are usually only recommended as a short-term treatment option for GAD.
People with GAD are at risk for developing a mood disorder, like depression. They are also at risk of developing other mental health disorders such as bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder.
GAD is not caused by one single cause. It is likely that genetics life events, and chronic medical illnesses all contribute to the development of GAD. The earlier intervention is crucial, as anxiety can worsen as time passes. Talk to your GP if anxiety is affecting your daily activities for you or a family member and lasts for longer than six months. Patients suffering from anxiety should seek assistance from their GP or psychologist.
Prevention
Everyone experiences anxiety at times particularly when they are concerned about a particular circumstance or event. But, if this feeling becomes constant and impacts your daily life, it may be a sign of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). It is essential to seek treatment if you are suffering from symptoms that interfere with your daily activities. Treatment options for GAD include psychotherapy, medication and lifestyle modifications.
Although it's difficult to pinpoint exactly what causes GAD stress, genetics and stress may be factors. People with a family history of depression or other mental health disorders are more likely to develop GAD. People who have a naturally shy or timid personality or have experienced traumatizing events in their lives are also at risk of developing the condition.
GAD is characterized by excessive and unrealistic anxiety or worry that lasts for at minimum six months. The tension or worry could be triggered by a variety of issues, such as work, family, money, health and many other issues. GAD sufferers frequently have difficulty finding the cause of their anxiety. Their anxieties are often sporadic.
Treatment for GAD can be effective. The first step is to speak to your healthcare provider or GP about your symptoms. They will take a full medical history and conduct a physical exam. They may refer you to a psychiatrist or specialist to further evaluate and treatment.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other psychological therapies can help you learn to manage your anxieties and improve your quality of life. These treatments are provided by the NHS and are typically given before anti-anxiety medication is prescribed. Buspirone and benzodiazepines are two medications that can be used to treat GAD. They both reduce feelings of anxiety and anxiety and. Antidepressants are sometimes used to treat GAD too, but they can take longer than benzodiazepines or buspirone to begin working.
You can also use relaxation techniques, eating healthy and exercise to manage your worries. Being a part of a support group and sharing your concerns with friends or family members can also be helpful. Call an Australian health service if your anxiety affects the daily routine of the family member or friend. For more information about the services offered go to healthdirect.