Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Many people worry about things like health, money, or family problems at one time or another. But people with GAD often feel extremely worried about many things. They may feel anxious about just getting through the day. At times, worrying keeps people with GAD from doing everyday tasks.

This is a list of common symptoms. People with GAD:

* worry about everyday things for at least six months
* can't control their constant worries
* can't relax
* have a hard time concentrating
* are easily startled
* have trouble falling and/or staying asleep

- Common body symptoms are:

o feeling tired for no reason
o headaches
o muscle tension and aches
o having a hard time swallowing
o trembling or twitching
o being irritable
o sweating
o nausea
o feeling lightheaded
o feeling out of breath
o having to go to the bathroom a lot
o hot flashes

Is there help?

There is help for people with GAD. There are many therapeutic approaches that can reduce the frequency and intensity of GAD symptoms. The most effective approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relaxation Training, and Mindfulness Training. Together, these approaches can help to change the thought-patterns and habits that cause anxiety.