If everyday life stresses you out completely, if the daily challenges of your life seem like an insurmountable obstacle, and if you constantly worry about all the little things in your life, you could be suffering from what is known as generalized anxiety disorder. also known as (GAD).
GAD is characterized by an extreme and irrational concern for the everyday things of life. What’s more, this worry is uncontrollable and completely out of line with the real source of the worry.
In 2007, the National Institute of Mental Health reported that about 6.8 million adults in the US suffer from this anxiety disorder.
As you obsess over worries that most others can take in stride, you may also have some physical symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, headaches, restlessness, muscle aches, sweating, insomnia, and many other indicators. To be diagnosed with GAD, symptoms must have persisted consistently for at least six months.
As for treatment once diagnosed, a series of medications such as SSRIs and benzodiazepines can be very effective in long-term treatment of GAD. Aside from medication, a particular form of psychotherapy known as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) may be just as effective as medication.
If you think you are suffering from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), I strongly recommend that you seek treatment from a licensed health care provider. This treatment should preferably be from a psychiatrist or psychologist. With the right treatment, over time you will see that your life improves considerably.
Copyright 2010 Dr. Arshia Alec Shizadi