Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
It is normal to feel anxious at times, especially during stressful periods in one’s life. However, excessive, uncontrollable and irrational worry without a proportionate reason for the behavior may interfere with daily activities and may indicate having Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
As with several other mental health conditions, the exact cause of GAD is not fully understood. There are certain conditions that seem to contribute to its existence. Some of these are genetics, brain chemistry, gender (females have a higher risk of developing GAD), personality and substance abuse, as well as life experiences and environmental factors, including stress and trauma.
Physical health conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heart disease, hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, and menopause, also appear to be associated with its development.
Individuals with GAD often exhibit physical symptoms, even though the condition mainly affects the way a person thinks. Physical symptoms include fatigue, frequent headaches, nausea, muscle tension, excessive sweating, trembling and fidgeting, difficulty in breathing, restlessness, rashes, insomnia, and irritability. It is also common for people with GAD to suffer from other mental health concerns, such as phobias, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression.
People with GAD should see a psychiatrist or a psychologist, who can effectively diagnose and plan treatment. Often, treatment includes medication and cognitive behavioral therapy.
