If you are completely stressed out by everyday life, if the daily challenges in your life seem like an insurmountable obstacle, and if you have constant 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 preoccupation with the everyday things in life. What’s more, this worry is uncontrollable and completely out of line with the actual 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 become obsessed with concerns 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 a host of other indicators. To be diagnosed with GAD, symptoms must have persisted consistently for at least six months.
In terms of treatment once diagnosed, a variety of medications such as SSRIs and benzodiazepines can be very effective in long-term treatment of GAD. Aside from medications, a particular form of psychotherapy known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) could be just as effective as medications.
If you think you have generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), I strongly urge you to seek treatment from a licensed healthcare provider. This treatment should preferably be from a psychiatrist or psychologist. With proper treatment, over time you will see that your life improves considerably.
Copyright 2010 Dr. Arshia Alec Shizadi