It is easy enough to confuse the occasional bout of anxiety with something deeper. Anyone can experience anxiety through the course of worrying about normal, everyday things. Anxiety disorders, on the other hand, are an expansive condition where the anxiety does not disappear, and can often worsen as time passes. These disorders have the unfortunate power to interfere with a person’s ability to go about their daily lives, affecting relationships, jobs, and more. Here are some facts about generalized anxiety disorder.
What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Also known as GAD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a condition characterized by persistent feelings of anxiety, or dread. This general feeling, the cause of which can vary, can frequently interfere with a person’s daily life. Anything from their personal life, to their social life, to work life can be affected due to the constant stressor of this ever-present feeling. The feeling(s) of general anxiety may last for several months, or even years.
What are Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
While symptoms will vary from person to person, there are some symptoms that, when combined, may indicate to a medical professional that generalized anxiety disorder is present. Some of these symptoms can include:
· Finding oneself to be easily fatigued
· Feelings of restlessness, being on edge, or wound-up
· Difficulty concentrating
· Irritability
· Experiencing unexplained pains
· Experiencing muscle and stomach aches, or headaches
· Having difficulty controlling one’s feelings of worry
· Sleep difficulties, either falling asleep or staying asleep
How are Anxiety Disorders Treated?
Treatments will vary by person and can include psychotherapy and/or medication. You should have a deep discussion with your healthcare provider to see what options are best for you, as not all medications or therapies will work for everyone. Some options for treatment can include:
· Psychotherapy – Often also called talk therapy, the process of talking through anxieties, specially directed at your specific anxieties, can help many people navigate anxiety disorders
· Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – This method of teaching sufferers to react to their own anxieties, thoughts, and behaviors in a healthy way may help alleviate anxiety
· Medications like antidepressants and specific anti-anxiety medications may be the right method for some people
· Beta-blockers, which are typically used to treat high blood pressure, may be effective in people who experience physical symptoms of anxiety like trembling, blushing or shaking
· In some situations, medical cannabis may be an option for someone suffering from anxiety
Who is at Risk for Anxiety Disorders?
Genetic and environmental indicators can both contribute to someone’s likelihood of having or developing an anxiety disorder. Sometimes existing symptoms can also be worsened by certain physical conditions, or intake of caffeine and other symptoms. These may also be the initiators of anxiety for some people. Some risk factors for anxiety disorders include:
· A family history of anxiety or various other mental disorders
· Early childhood shyness, or feelings of nervousness or distress in new situations as a child
· Being exposed to negative and stressful life events, or being exposed to similar environmental events