What is Generalised Anxiety Disorder ?
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is type of anxiety disorder where the person experiences chronic and excessive worry about various aspects of daily life, such as work, health, relationships, and finances.
Unlike typical anxiety that arises in response to specific stressors, GAD is persistent and often disproportionate to the actual situation.
GAD can interfere with daily functioning and overall well-being
What are the Symptoms of Generalised Anxiety Disorder?
GAD symptoms can vary in severity but often include:
Excessive Worrying: Persistent anxiety about multiple aspects of life, even when there is little or no reason for concern.
Restlessness and Irritability: Feeling on edge, tense, or easily frustrated.
Physical Symptoms: Muscle tension, headaches, nausea, and dizziness.
Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep due to racing thoughts.
Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing or experiencing a mental ‘fog’ due to ongoing worry.
Avoidance Behaviours: Steering clear of situations or tasks that trigger anxiety.
Causes of GAD
The development of GAD is influenced by a combination of factors:
Biological Factors: Imbalances in brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine.
Genetic Predisposition: A family history of anxiety disorders may increase the likelihood of developing GAD.
Psychological Factors: Chronic stress, perfectionism, or difficulty managing uncertainty can contribute to excessive worry.
Environmental Triggers: Life stressors such as financial instability, relationship difficulties, or major life transitions can exacerbate symptoms.
What is the Best Treatment for GAD?
GAD is a manageable condition, and treatment aims to reduce anxiety levels and improve coping strategies.
Evidence-based treatments recommended by NICE and SIGN guidelines include:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages mindfulness and acceptance strategies to manage distressing thoughts and emotions.
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT): Supports individuals in developing self-kindness and reducing excessive self-criticism.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Addresses social difficulties that may contribute to anxiety.
Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other anxiolytic medications may be prescribed when psychological therapies alone are insufficient.
Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, stress management techniques, healthy sleep habits, and relaxation exercises can aid in symptom management.
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