Generalized Anxiety Disorder

What is generalized anxiety disorder?

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a condition in which a person worries excessively and unrealistically. They may also be jittery, restless, or dizzy. When these symptoms last for at least 6 months, a diagnosis of GAD may be made.

GAD may exist by itself, or with both anxiety and depression. It is estimated that almost 5% of people have had this disorder during their lives.

How does it occur?

The cause of GAD is unknown. Genetic and environmental factors play a role. Women have GAD about twice as often as men.

The worry in GAD is not about panic attacks or being afraid in public places. It is typically "free-floating" anxiety out of proportion to any real life situation. The worrying can interfere with normal day-to-day activities and work or school.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms include excessive, unrealistic, and uncontrollable worrying about many things such as:

• the state of the world
• the economy
• violence in society
• your job
• the bills
• chores
• family members

Physical symptoms such as muscle tension, sleep problems, or feeling on edge usually go along with anxiety. A person may be short-tempered and unable to focus or concentrate because of the worrying. Other symptoms include sweating, shaking, having a very fast heartbeat, and feeling like fainting. People with GAD may be uneasy in a group or in a waiting room.

How is it diagnosed?

There is no lab test for GAD. Your healthcare provider or therapist will ask about your symptoms. He or she will make sure you do not have a medical illness or drug or alcohol problem that could cause the symptoms. Some medicines can cause anxiety or make it worse. These include asthma medicines, stimulants, and steroids such as prednisone.

If you have had the symptoms for at least 6 months, if you have had to cut back on your activities, and if you find it difficult to get things done, you may be diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder.

How is it treated?

Different types of approaches have proven helpful in treating GAD. These include medicine, behavior therapy, relaxation therapy, cognitive therapy, and stress management techniques. Which treatments your healthcare provider or therapist uses may depend upon how much the disorder interferes with your day-to-day life.

Several types of medicines can help treat GAD. Your healthcare provider will work with you to carefully select the best one for you.

How long will the effects last?

GAD can last many years and sometimes an entire lifetime.

What can I do for myself?

• Talk with your healthcare provider or therapist about your concerns.
• Discuss any physical symptoms any all the medicines you take with your provider.
• Realize that you are not alone and that your anxiety can be overcome.
• Do not use alcohol or other drugs to overcome your anxiety.
• Exercise for at least 20 minutes every day.
• Avoid caffeine.
• Get 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Learn relaxation techniques or yoga.
• Go to a stress management class in your local community.

For further information, see:

You may also want to contact Mental Health America (formerly the National Mental Health Association or NMHA). NMHA's toll-free Information Center number is 1-800-969-NMHA. Its web site address is http://www.NMHA.org.