Common Characteristics of Generalized
Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Though we all worry and are concerned about things every
now and again, GAD sufferers worry most of the time, even when
there's nothing much to worry about. The worry itself feels uncontrollable,
and therefore cannot be pushed out of the mind - for this reason,
GAD can be inhibiting or bothersome to a person's working, sleeping,
socializing or enjoyment of life, all due to their worries.
GAD is excessive or unrealistic anxiety and worry over events and activities
in a lifetime. This worry lasts for at least six months, and is difficult
to "turn off".
The worry of GAD is also associated with a minimum of 3 of the
following symptoms:
- Feeling restless, keyed up, or on edge
- Feeling tired frequently
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
With GAD, the worry is not related to some other psychological problem
or disorder, and is not a result of drug side effects or interactions.
This worry or anxiety is extremely distressing to the person, and can cause
significant interference in the life of the sufferer.
The actual topic of
worry among sufferers of GAD can be quite different and unique.
In fact, many sufferers claim that they simply worry about "everything." However,
there are certain topics that are worried about more frequently
and commonly. Some of these common themes include:
- Minor issues (punctuality, completion of activities, getting
lost, etc)
- Health and safety of self and loved ones
- Work/school
- Financial matters
- Appearance
- Friendships and romantic relationships
- Politics, the environmental, and community affairs
- Inability to cope with situations
Causes of GAD can be both biological or psychological.
Biological factors include:
- Neurotransmitters
- Nervous system activity
- Genetics and heredity
Psychological factors include:
- Biases in thinking and reasoning
- Worry as avoidance
- Beliefs about worry itself
Treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder
The treatments used for GAD depend on its cause. Biologically caused GAD
is usually successfully treated with drugs, including antidepressants.
Psychological treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy,
relaxation training, image exposure, exposure and prevention of worry behaviors,
and training in other skills. Combined treatments of medical and psychological
techniques are commonly successful.
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