Anxiety Facts

Recognizing Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) is characterized by 6 months or more of chronic, exaggerated worry and tension that is unfounded or much more severe than the normal anxiety most people experience. People with this disorder usually expect the worst; they worry excessively about money, health, family, or work, even when there are no signs of trouble. They are unable to relax and often suffer from insomnia. Many people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder also have physical symptoms, such as fatigue, trembling, muscle tension, headaches, irritability, or hot flashes. Fortunately, through research supported by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), effective treatments have been developed to help people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

How Common is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

About 3 to 4% of the U.S. population has Generalized Anxiety Disorder during the course of a year.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder most often strikes people in childhood or adolescence, but can begin in adulthood, too. It affects women more often than men.

What Causes Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Some research suggests that Generalized Anxiety Disorder may run in families, and it may also grow worse during stress. Generalized Anxiety Disorder usually begins at an earlier age and symptoms may manifest themselves more slowly than in most other anxiety disorders.

What Treatments Are Available for Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Treatments for Generalized Anxiety Disorder include medications, cognitive-behavioral therapy, relaxation techniques, and biofeedback to control muscle tension. Successful treatment may include a medication called buspirone. Research into the effectiveness of other medications, such as benzodiazapines and antidepressants, is ongoing.

Can People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder Also Have Other Physical and Emotional Illnesses?

Research shows that Generalized Anxiety Disorder often coexists with depression, substance abuse, or other anxiety disorders. Other conditions associated with stress, such as irritable bowel syndrome, often accompany Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Patients with physical symptoms such as insomnia or headaches should also tell their doctors about their feelings of worry and tension. This will help the patient's health care provider to recognize that the person is suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

TREAT Generalized Anxiety Disorder NATURALLY

Source: nimh.nih.gov

Generalized Anxiety Facts

Recognizing Generalized Anxiety Disorder

How Common is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

What Causes Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

What Treatments Are Available for Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Can People with Generalized Anxiety Disorder Also Have Other Physical and Emotional Illnesses?