A person with GAD always expects the worst will happen, can't relax, and feels tense most of the time. Aches and pains, plus feeling tired a lot, can also happen with GAD. Sometimes, though, the source of the worry is hard to pinpoint. Just the thought of getting through the day causes anxiety.
It's important to know that when a person has this illness, it's not her or his fault. And, it's not something a person can just "snap out of." No one knows for sure what causes GAD. Most often GAD begins in childhood, but can start in an adult as well. More women than men have this illness. And, GAD may run in families.
What are the symptoms of GAD?
The biggest symptom of GAD is constant worry. Physical symptoms can also happen. Research suggests that GAD symptoms can become worse when a person is under stress. Symptoms include:• Constant worrying about things both big and small.
• Aches and pains, including headaches, for no reason.
• Trembling and muscle tension.
• Feeling tense and unable to relax.
• Feeling tired all the time.
• Having trouble staying focused or not being able to keep your mind on one thing.
• Feeling irritable or grouchy.
• Trouble falling or staying asleep.
• Sweating or hot flashes.
• Having a lump in the throat or feeling like you need to throw up when you're worried.
• Many people with GAD startle more easily than other people. They sometimes suffer from depression, too.
Most people with GAD have mild symptoms that don't limit them in regards to social settings or in the work place. Unlike other anxiety disorders, people don't usually avoid certain situations as a result of their disorder. But, GAD can be severe for some people, making it hard to do even the simplest daily tasks. The symptoms of GAD tend to lessen with age.
What should I do if I think I have GAD?
If you think you may have symptoms of GAD, a visit to your doctor is the best place to start. Your doctor will perform a careful exam to figure out whether your symptoms are really due to GAD, or if you have another anxiety disorder or problem. Be aware that all anxiety disorders are not treated the same. GAD is diagnosed when someone spends at least 6 months worrying too much about everyday problems.The next step your doctor may suggest is a visit with a mental health professional. This includes psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. It is best to look for a professional who has special training in cognitive-behavioral and/or behavioral therapy. Try to find someone who is open to the use of medications, should they be needed. And if they are not a medical doctor, be sure they work with one so medication can be prescribed. Keep in mind that when you start taking medicine, it may not start working right away. You need to give your body a few weeks to get used to the medicine. Then, you and your doctor can decide if it's working.
You can get free information about anxiety disorders from the National Institute of Mental Health. Call toll free 1-88-88-ANXIETY. It's very important that you feel comfortable with your treatment. If this is not the case, seek help elsewhere. If you've been taking medication, don't stop it all of a sudden. These drugs need to be tapered off slowly, under the care of your doctor. Talk with your doctor about how to stop the medication you're taking.
Next we'll talk more about medical treatments, and self-help techniques.
