When Worry is Out of Control?

Do you worry about everyday issues for no obvious reason? Are you always waiting for disaster to strike or excessively worried about things such as health, money, family, work, or school?

If so, you may have a type of anxiety disorder called generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). GAD can make daily life feel like a constant state of worry, fear, and dread. The good news is GAD is treatable.

What is generalized anxiety disorder?

Occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. Many people may worry about health, money, or family problems. But people with GAD feel extremely worried or nervous more frequently about these and other things—even when there is little or no reason to worry about them. GAD usually involves a persistent feeling of anxiety or dread that interferes with daily life. It is not the same as occasionally worrying or experiencing anxiety due to stressful life events. People with GAD experience frequent anxiety for months, if not years, and it develops slowly. It often starts around age 30, although it can occur in childhood and is more common in women.

Signs and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder

• Worry excessively about everyday things
• Have trouble controlling worries or feelings of nervousness
• Know they worry more than they should
• Feel restless and have trouble relaxing
• Have a hard time concentrating
• Startles easily
• Have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
• Tire easily or feel tired all the time
• Have headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches, or unexplained pains
• Have a hard time swallowing
• Tremble or twitch
• Feel irritable or “on edge”
• Sweat a lot, feel light headed, or feel out of breath

Symptoms may fluctuate over time and are often worse during times of stress, for example—with a physical illness, during school exams, or during a family or relationship conflict.

What causes Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Several parts of the brain and biological processes play a key role in fear and anxiety. By learning more about how the brain and body function in people with anxiety disorders, researchers may be able to develop better treatments. Researchers have also found that external causes, such as experiencing a traumatic event or being in a stressful environment, may put you at higher risk for developing GAD.

How GAD is treated

If you think you’re experiencing symptoms of GAD, talk to a health care provider. After discussing your history, a health care provider may conduct a physical exam to ensure an unrelated physical problem is not causing your symptoms. A health care provider may refer you to a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker. The first step to effective treatment is to get a diagnosis, usually from a mental health professional. GAD is generally treated with psychotherapy, medication, or both. Speak with a health care provider about the best treatment for you.

Support Groups

Some people with anxiety disorders might benefit from joining a self-help or support group and sharing their problems and achievements with others. Support groups are available both in person and online.

Healthy Habits

Practicing a healthy lifestyle also can help combat anxiety, although this alone cannot replace treatment. Researchers have found that implementing certain healthy choices in daily life—such as reducing caffeine intake and getting enough sleep—can reduce anxiety symptoms when paired with standard care—such as psychotherapy and medication.

Support recommendations for generalized anxiety disorder

Educate Yourself

A good way to help yourself or a loved one who may be struggling with GAD is to seek information. Research the warning signs, learn about treatment options, and keep up to date with current research.

Communicate

If you are experiencing GAD symptoms, have an honest conversation about how you’re feeling with someone you trust. If you think a friend or family member may be struggling with GAD, set aside time to talk to express your concern and reassure them of your support.

Know When to Seek Help

If your anxiety, or the anxiety of a loved one starts to cause problems in everyday life — such as at school, work, or with friends and family—seek professional help. Talk to a health care provider about your mental health.

Finding Help

Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator

Online resources provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), helps you locate mental health treatment facilities and programs. Find a facility in your state by searching SAMHSA’s online Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator.

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad