Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

GAD affects 3.1% of the population, 6.8 million Americans. It occurs twice as often in women than men.

The onset is gradual, often exacerbating over time if left untreated. GAD sufferers experience chronic, excessive, persistent, and unrealistic anxiety and worry about a variety of things every day and possibly all day. People with GAD feel they cannot turn of their thoughts and worries, it feels uncontrollable. The exaggerated, unrelenting worrying interferes with every day life. (social, occupation, academic, and family)

Symptoms may include:
  • Sense of impending doom
  • Excessive worry
  • Preoccupation with worries
  • Ruminating thoughts
  • Anxiety symptoms
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Restlessness
  • Apprehensive expectations
  • Irritability
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Muscle tension
  • Fatigue

Causal Factors:
Biologic, Family Background, Life Experience, Sociologic, and/or Stress factors. Can also be accompanied by other Anxiety Disorders and/or Depression.

Treatment Options:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Medication, and/or Relaxation, Anxiety and Stress Management Techniques.