Definition of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Summary
It’s common to have occasional anxiety, particularly in the context of a hectic existence. However, generalized anxiety disorder may be indicated by severe, persistent, hard-to-control concern and anxiety that interferes with daily tasks.
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Generalized anxiety disorder can strike an adult or kid at any age. While panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other forms of anxiety are distinct disorders, generalized anxiety disorder shares symptoms with all.
It might be difficult to manage generalized anxiety disorder over time. It frequently coexists with other mood or anxiety disorders. Psychotherapy or medication is usually effective in improving symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Changing one’s way of life, picking up coping mechanisms, and practicing relaxation are some helpful strategies.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder might differ. They might consist of:
persistent fear or concern about several things that is excessive for the events’ impact
overanalyzing strategies and options to account for all worst-case scenarios
seeing circumstances and occurrences as dangerous even when they aren’t
Having trouble coping with uncertainty
Fear of making the incorrect choice and indecision
incapacity to ignore or let go of a concern
inability to unwind, restlessness, and a heightened or tense sense
Concentration problems or the sensation that your mind “goes blank”
Among the physical indications and symptoms are:
Tiredness Difficulty sleeping
Tension or pains in the muscles
trembling and agitated
Feeling uneasy or quickly alarmed Sweating
diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, or nausea
Intolerance
Sometimes you might not be totally overcome by your anxieties, yet you could still have anxiety for no apparent cause. For instance, you can have overwhelming anxiety for your safety or the safety of those you love, or you might sense that something negative is going to happen in general.
You experience severe difficulty in social situations, at work, or in other aspects of your life due to your anxiety, concern, or physical symptoms. Concerns might vary over time and with age, as well as from one issue to another.
signs and symptoms in kids and teens
While children and teens may worry about the same things as adults do, they may worry too much about:
performance in a school or on a sports field
the security of family members
Being punctual (on time)
Nuclear war, earthquakes, or other calamitous incidents
An overly anxious kid or adolescent may:
very worried about fitting in
Have an obsession with details.
Retake assignments if they weren’t done perfectly the first time.
Take too long to do your homework
Insufficient self-assurance
Make an effort to be accepted
need a lot of assurance regarding their performance.
experience regular stomachaches or other bodily discomfort
Stay away from social situations and avoid going to school.
When to visit a physician
While some anxiety is common, see your physician if:
You believe that your excessive concern is getting in the way of your relationships, career, or other aspects of your life.
You have anxiety mixed with depression or irritability, struggle with alcoholism or drug abuse, or have other mental health issues.
If you’re experiencing suicide thoughts or actions, get emergency care right now.
It’s doubtful that your anxieties will go away on their own; in fact, they can become worse with time. Try to get expert assistance before your anxiety gets out of control as it can be simpler to cure it then.
Reasons
Generalized anxiety disorder is most likely caused by a complex interplay of biological and environmental variables, as is the case with many mental health illnesses. These causes may include:
variations in the chemistry and function of the brain
Molecular Biology
Variations in the perception of dangers
Growth and Character
Factors at risk
Compared to males, women receive diagnoses for generalized anxiety disorder considerably more frequently. The likelihood of acquiring generalized anxiety disorder may be heightened by the following factors:
Individuality. Individuals with cautious or negative temperaments, or those who shun risky situations, may be more susceptible to generalized anxiety disorder than others.
genetics. A family history of generalized anxiety disorder is possible.
encounters. Individuals who suffer from generalized anxiety disorder can have had traumatic or bad events in their childhood, major life transitions in the past, or a recent traumatic or unfavorable incident. Risk may be raised by other mental health conditions or chronic medical conditions.
Avoidance
Although it is impossible to pinpoint exactly what may lead someone to acquire generalized anxiety disorder, there are things you can do to lessen the severity of your symptoms if you already have anxiety:
Seek early assistance. Like many other mental health issues, anxiety can be more difficult to manage if you put off treatment.
Maintain a journal. You and your mental health provider can determine what’s stressing you out and what seems to make you feel better by keeping a journal of your personal life.
Give your life’s difficulties a priority. By properly allocating your time and energy, you may lessen your tension.
Steer clear of harmful substance usage. Anxiety may be brought on by or made worse by using drugs, alcohol, nicotine, or even coffee. It might be unsettling to stop using any of these substances if you are addicted to them. See your doctor, look for a treatment program, or join a support group if you are unable to stop on your own.