Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD can be treated with therapy and medication. Medication is generally used only for a short time to alleviate symptoms and should be followed by therapy.
Regular exercise is a successful treatment for anxiety. It helps reduce stress hormones and boosts positive chemicals in the brain. It also helps people to forget their worries.
Symptoms
Many people experience anxiety from time to moment. This is especially true when they are stressed. If your anxiety is persistent and constant that it becomes difficult to relax or function, you could have a generalized anxiety disorder .
People with GAD have a lot of anxiety and anxiety without any reason. They worry about a myriad of things, including their school and job performance as well as the security of their family members, future events and natural disasters. They feel a sense of imminent danger and have difficulty in focusing or sleeping.
The signs of GAD typically begin in adolescence or early childhood and are more prevalent among women than men. They can persist into adulthood, and are often caused by depression or other mental disorders.
You may also have other physical symptoms of anxiety, such as headaches, muscle tension or stomach discomfort. If you are experiencing these symptoms, speak to your doctor. They will ask you questions to ensure that there isn't anything other than the symptoms, and conduct a physical exam.
GAD is a treatable condition. Treatment options include psychotherapy and medication. Self-help methods like mindfulness meditation, relaxation and exercise may also be beneficial.
Anxiety disorders encompass a variety of disorders that can affect your mood and behavior, such as panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias; social anxiety disorder; 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 any person, but it's more prevalent among adolescents and children. Some people are more susceptible to anxiety disorders because of their temperament, while others are afflicted by trauma or mental illness. If you have a family history of anxiety, it's crucial to seek help. The earlier you begin treatment and diagnosis, the less severe the symptoms will be.
Treatment
Everybody feels anxious at times However, GAD is an ongoing feeling of anxiety and dread that interferes with everyday life. GAD can cause you to feel anxious about many different things. It can make it hard to concentrate at school or at work and may affect your physical health. You might avoid social situations and activities due to feelings of anxiety or fear.
Psychotherapy and medications have been proven to decrease symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Treatment decisions are based on the severity of your symptoms as well as any other medical conditions you might have.
The first step is to speak with your doctor about the issue. It is important to inform your doctor about your symptoms as well as the length of time they've been present, and how serious they are. Your doctor will conduct an examination and ask you questions. They will also determine if you have other health problems such as heart disease or diabetes, and will inquire about the family history of mental illness.
Talk therapy or psychotherapy is the main treatment of anxiety disorders. Many forms of psychotherapy have been shown to be effective, but cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective. This kind of therapy helps you learn new ways of thinking and acting to reduce anxiety. It requires some 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 highly efficient and come with a small number of side effects when taken for the recommended duration. There are a few natural remedies that could help, such as valerian and kava, however there is not enough evidence to support these claims. Additionally, they may interact with other medications, like SSRIs.
It is important that you take your child to a mental health professional in order to diagnose and manage anxiety. It is crucial to consult with your doctor if anxiety symptoms affect your child's school, family or social life.
Diagnosis
GAD is usually diagnosed when a person is experiencing extreme, uncontrollable worry more days than not for at least six months. This is distinct from the occasional feeling of anxiety which is normal for the majority of people at certain times. People suffering from GAD typically anticipate disasters and are apprehensive about money, health work, family, and other personal concerns. They may have trouble concentration and may be exhausted or restless. Some symptoms of GAD include headaches, muscle tension, difficulty sleeping and irritability. People suffering from GAD also may have stomach upset and heart palpitations.
Your doctor will ask you about your current and previous symptoms to diagnose GAD. Your doctor will ask you about your family history. Your doctor will then conduct an examination for physical health. The doctor will search for other health problems like respiratory or heart diseases. Your doctor may suggest an imaging test like an CT scan or an MRI, to rule out other health problems.
GAD is treated through talk therapy (psychotherapy). Your doctor might recommend cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that's been thoroughly researched. CBT teaches new ways to think, behave and respond to situations that can help you feel less anxious. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to ease anxiety. In general, medications are only advised for short-term GAD treatment.
People suffering from GAD are at risk of developing a mood disorder, like depression. They also are at risk of developing other mental health issues, such as bipolar disorder as well as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder.
There is no single reason behind GAD. Life experiences, genetics and chronic medical illnesses are likely to all play a role in the development of GAD. Early intervention is crucial since anxiety can become worse with time. Talk to your GP if you or someone you love has feelings of anxiety that hinder your daily functioning and last more than 6 months. People with anxiety can seek help from their GP or psychologist.
Prevention
Everyone feels anxious from time to time particularly when they are worried about an event or a situation. If this feeling persists and causes problems in daily life it could be a sign that you have a generalized anxiety disorder. If your symptoms are affecting everyday activities, it's essential to seek assistance. Treatment options for GAD include therapy, medication and lifestyle modifications.
Although it's not known precisely what causes GAD, genetics and stress could be factors. People with a family history of depression or other mental health conditions are more likely to develop GAD. People who have a naturally timid or shy temperament or who have had a traumatic event in their lives are also at risk of developing the disease.
The main characteristic of GAD is excessive and unreasonable worry or tension, typically for at least six months. The tension or worry could be related to a variety of topics, including work, family financial, health, and many other issues. People who have GAD often aren't able to pinpoint the cause of their anxiety, and their worries seem to float from one concern to the next.
Treatment for GAD can be efficient. In the beginning, you should talk to a doctor or healthcare professional regarding your symptoms. They will collect a complete medical history and perform an examination. They might refer you for an additional examination or treatment to specialists or psychiatrists.
Cognitive therapy for behavioural issues (CBT) and other psychological therapies can help you manage your worries and improve the quality of your life. These treatments are provided by the NHS and are typically provided prior to anti-anxiety medication being prescribed. Buspirone and benzodiazepines are two medicines that can be used to treat GAD. They both reduce feelings of anxiety and fear. Antidepressants are also used to treat GAD, but their effects can take longer to be evident than those of benzodiazepines and buspirone.
You can also utilize relaxation techniques, healthy eating and exercise to reduce your worries. Talking to friends and family about your concerns can be helpful. If you believe that your anxiety is impacting your life, or the wellbeing of a friend or relative contact an Australian health service phone number. For more information on the services offered on healthdirect, click here.