Generalized Anxiety Disorder

What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

People tend to worry about a wide range of things on a day-to-day basis such as health, finances, work and relationships. However, some people can experience significant distress and discomfort due to these worries which can indicate the presence of Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive and uncontrolled anxiety about everyday events and activities that interferes with their functioning in daily life. 

How do you identify Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

• Constant anxiety about various aspects of life

• Overthinking about what might happen in the future

• Feeling restless and/or nervous

• Difficulty in concentrating or feeling like the mind is going ‘blank’

• Feeling more irritable than usual

• Feeling easily tired or fatigued

• Muscle tension or pain

• Sleep related disturbances

• Physical concerns like headaches or gastric problems 

What causes Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder is caused by an interaction of biological, psychological and environmental factors. Imbalances in neurotransmitters have been associated with this disorder. Errors in thinking where people tend to focus more on negative aspects of situations can also contribute to its maintenance. 

When to seek help?

Some degree of anxiety is normal. However, individuals with generalized anxiety disorder find it difficult to control the worry. Even if a situation gets resolved, the worry that something bad will happen often shifts to other things. The anxiety prevents people from focusing on the tasks at hand and interferes with work performance, academics and even social interactions. It’s important to seek help when this anxiety is leading to distress and impacting functioning in different areas of life. 

What is the treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder? 

Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder requires a combination of therapy and medication. Medications help correct the neurotransmitter imbalance. Cognitive behaviour therapy helps identify and change negative patterns of thinking and behaviours. Acceptance and commitment therapy builds skills to stay in the present moment and disengage from worrying thoughts.