Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Published on Friday, February 12, 2010

Generalized Anxiety Disorder also known as GAD is the most common anxiety order of them all. Over 4 million American adults suffer from GAD. More people worldwide are affected by general anxiety disorder than all of the other anxiety orders combined. The years between childhood to middle age contain the highest risk for an individual to to develop GAD, and it affects about twice as many women as it does men....

Everybody has some anxiety which is perfectly normal and healthy. When anxiety gets to the level of constant worry and tension, that is when it starts to become a problem. People that find themselves worrying about little everyday issues that they really have no need to be worrying about are most likely suffering from GAD.

Some examples would be:

Derrick has an overwhelming and constant fear of losing his job. Even though the company is doing great and the boss thinks he's doing an outstanding job, he is still overpowered with thoughts of being laid off. He is becoming easily irritated and feels threatened when others give constructive criticism which makes him question even more the safety of his job.
Jill is having a dinner party next week and hasn't slept for three days. The constant "what if" thoughts have overwhelmed her brain. What if I burn the main dish? What if they don't like what I cook? What if I upset Deb by inviting Tina? What if? What if? What if? Jill is worrying all day and night and letting worry put her into a state of panic for a simple dinner party with some friends.

These are simple examples that have to do with everyday issues, but they show how some people can be completely taken in by these bouts of worry.

Most types of anxiety are also followed by physical symptoms such as: Sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, nausea, hot or cold flashes and a discomfort or tightening of the chest. Not everybody experiences the same physical symptoms and for some it could be one or a combination of symptoms. Mentally people with GAD frequently feel irritable, fidgety, and keyed up. Having trouble concentrating, or falling asleep at night because they can't stop worrying, can also be attributed to anxiety disorders.

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