Generalized Anxiety Disorder Symptoms & Treatment

There are ways to treat generalized anxiety disorder symptoms. But first, what is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) all about? It has to do with worrying too much over issues and situations that might not even warrant the anxiety displayed for them. Relaxation and leading a normal life is practically impossible for someone who is battling with extreme anxiety.

GAD patients most likely have the same things on their minds as most people. They could be fretting over money, work challenges, health concerns or family woes. Only for someone with GAD, the worry level is cranked up a few notches. However, whether the anxiety is proportional to the situation or is excessive, they both have a similar ending. There is no off button for the anxious thoughts.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Symptoms To Watch Out For

GAD signs and symptoms experienced change from time to time. Some days are better while others are not so good. There could be parts of the day that you are smiling then you become problematic later. Although GAD is not caused by stress, it can aggravate the symptoms. Panic attacks or depression can appear out of nowhere.

The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Symptoms is not the same for everyone. However, most individuals who experience Generalized Anxiety Disorder manifest a specific combination of the psychological and physical symptoms listed below. These are the common warning signs that a GAD problem might be present.

• Psychological - These include being unable to relax, fear of rejection or losing control, dread feelings, trouble concentrating, failure to manage anxious thoughts, and irritability.

• Physical - Among these are easy exhaustion, being on edgy or jumpiness, difficulty falling asleep or remaining that way, restlessness, muscle soreness, tension and aches, and diarrhea, stomach problems and nausea.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Treatment

Several treatments are available that can significantly reduce GAD symptoms. However, the most effective GAD treatment plans are those that are able to combine therapy with various self-help activities. These are the ones that churn out the most favorable results.

Treating GAD entails therapy. Studies reveal that medication and therapy are about equally effective. The beauty of therapy for GAD is that it is free from adverse effects. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is especially helpful in Generalized Anxiety Disorder treatment. It takes a look at the distortions in the ways people look at themselves and the world.

CBT for GAD consists of five parts: education, physical control strategies, behavioral strategies, monitoring, and cognitive control strategies. Therapy length varies from one person to another. Nevertheless, most anxiety therapies are fairly brief. Many of the methods and techniques learned can be performed daily at home.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Treatment can also be in the form of medications. Note though that such drugs are only recommended as temporary solutions to provide relief from Generalized Anxiety Disorder symptoms during the initial stages of treatment. The three medication types prescribed for GAD are benzodiazepines, antidepressants and buspirone. Therapy is still the answer to achieving lasting success in treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder symptoms.