Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Posted December 14, 2021

It’s normal to feel anxious from time to time, especially these days. However, excessive ongoing anxiety and worries that are difficult to control and interfere with daily life may be a sign of generalized anxiety disorder, or GAD. It’s possible to develop GAD as a child or an adult. Symptoms are similar to panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other types of anxiety. They include the inability to relax, difficulty concentrating, and a failure to let go of worry. Physical signs also exist, including fatigue, muscle tension, feeling twitchy, and nervousness. It can be challenging to live with the condition, but medication and psychotherapy can lead to improvement. Lifestyle changes, learning coping skills, and using relaxation techniques are also beneficial.

As with many mental health conditions, the cause of generalized anxiety disorder likely arises from a complex interaction of biological and environmental factors, which may include genetics, differences in brain chemistry and function, development and personality, and differences in the way threats are perceived.

P.S. If you have suicidal thoughts or behaviors, seek emergency treatment immediately.