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Generalized Anxiety Disorder

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"Courage is mastery of fear, not the absence of fear."
~Mark Twain

What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Definition
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common anxiety disorder that involves chronic worrying and tension. While we all encounter concerns in our day-to-day living, an individual with GAD experiences those concerns to excessive levels that challenge daily functioning. An individual may feel as if their thoughts cannot be turned off, even to sleep. Chronic worrying has a significant impact on the ability to sleep, relax, or even concentrate. We all need physical and mental energy to navigate our day. Excessive worrying depletes that vital energy.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder is typically considered as a possible diagnosis when an individual experiences recurrent, overwhelming worry and tension that interfere with normal functioning for a period of six months or longer.

Common Challenges
Depending on the degree of severity, Generalized Anxiety Disorder can compromise workplace and social functioning, day-to-day activities, and even relationships.

Prevalence
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Generalized Anxiety Disorder affects an estimated 6.8 million Americans including twice as many women as men.

Signs
An individual with GAD generally experiences the following symptoms:

Recurrent and often overwhelming feelings of worry about a number of concerns
Difficulty in controlling the worry
Three or more of the following (only one item is required in children): 1) Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge 2) Being easily fatigued 3) Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank 4) Irritability 5) Muscle tension 6) Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless, unsatisfying sleep

Treatment
Generalized Anxiety Disorder is often successfully treated with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and may or may not include medications designed to help manage symptoms while an individual is undergoing therapeutic endeavors. CBT focuses on psycho-education and skills development to effectively replace unhealthy thoughts and behavior patterns with healthy ones. Professional therapists may use other techniques or therapies depending on the needs of the individual. Exercise, mindfulness meditation, and healthy diet may also be helpful. Please be aware that Generalized Anxiety Disorder typically occurs alongside other disorders that may require stabilization before GAD symptoms can be addressed effectively.

We have provided a series of materials below that you may find helpful in seeking general information. For specific information about your situation, please seek the assistance of a licensed professional therapist who specializes in Anxiety Disorders.