What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) experience intense, uncontrollable anxiety about many routine things at any given time. Even as these concerns resolve, they are readily replaced by new worries. The worries associated with GAD are typically about things most people worry about, such as the health of loved ones, finances, getting tasks done, or getting to places on time. While the subject of the worries themselves is not unreasonable, the time dedicated to thinking about the anticipated events and the intensity of the anxiety experienced is excessive as compared most.

In addition to anxiety, individuals may notice physical symptoms, such as feeling keyed up, spacey, and tense. All of the time and energy spent worrying can be quite exhausting as well.

Medication or therapy are common treatments for GAD with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) being one of the most effective treatments available. Through CBT, people can learn skills for managing anxiety and learn to challenge worry thoughts. Additionally, strategies for emotion regulation and relaxation may be introduced to help with physical symptoms.

Common Symptoms

Restlessness

Sleep issues and fatigue

Trouble concentrating

Muscle tension

Irritability