Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (often abbreviated as GAD) is a chronic condition characterized by excessive, long-lasting anxiety and worry about nonspecific life events, situations, and objects. It is the most common cause of disability in the mental health field.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of GAD is the almost constant presence of worry or tension, even when there is little or no cause. Worries seem to float from one problem to another, such as family or relationship problems, work issues, money, health, and other problems. Even when aware that their worries or fears are stronger than needed, a person with GAD still has difficulty controlling them.

Other symptoms include:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Problems falling or staying asleep, and sleep that is often restless and unsatisfying
• Restlessness when awake
• Muscle tension

Causes

The exact cause of GAD is not fully known, but a number of factors including genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental stresses appear to contribute to its development.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of GAD is based on a clinical interview and diagnostic guidelines. The most commonly used criteria for diagnosing GAD are:

• Excessive worry and anxiety about several different events or activities on more days than not for at least 6 months
• Difficulty controlling the worry
• The worry is associated with three or more of the following six symptoms: restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance
• The focus of the worry is not confined to features of an Axis I disorder
• The anxiety and worry are not better accounted for by a medical condition, a substance (including a drug of abuse, a medication), or withdrawal from a substance
• The condition does not occur exclusively during a Mood Disorder, a Psychotic Disorder, or a Pervasive Developmental Disorder

Treatment

Treatment often involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques. Medications used include antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and certain antipsychotic medications.

Prognosis

With treatment, the prognosis is good. Many people with GAD can function socially and hold down a job.

Prevention

There is no known way to prevent GAD. However, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

External links

• National Institute of Mental Health: Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Resources
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