Last reviewed:
Nov 21st 2022
M.S. Counseling Psychology
Generalized anxiety disorder is a type of anxiety disorder marked by uncontrollable, excessive worry that affects daily life in a multitude of ways. Psychotherapy, medication, or a combination approach are effective treatment options for sufferers of this mental health disorder.
People with GAD find their ongoing anxiety difficult to control, excessive, and disruptive to daily life. There is often no reason for the excessive anxiety they experience.
GAD’s symptoms can overlap with other types of anxiety disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic disorder. [2] The main difference is that people with GAD worry about a range of everyday events, including finances, physical health, relationships, and performance at work or school.
Anyone can experience GAD, but it is more commonly diagnosed among women. The development of this anxiety disorder often has a slow onset, with fluctuating symptoms throughout life. [3]
GAD symptoms are psychological and physiological and occur more days than not. The list of symptoms below is not exhaustive but includes the most commonly experienced by those with the anxiety disorder.
Psychological Symptoms:
Physical Symptoms:
Most people with GAD do not experience each symptom simultaneously. Symptoms often fluctuate throughout life, and the focus of worried thoughts may change. Some people find that symptoms worsen during stressful times. [3]
Children and teenagers with GAD may show perfectionism or express worry about not meeting adults' expectations. They frequently worry about their overall performance in school or sports or being accepted by peers.
GAD is often comorbid with other anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and substance abuse. Medical illnesses that are associated with stress, such as irritable bowel syndrome, can also be present. [1]
There is no singular cause for GAD, or anxiety disorders in general. Experts generally accept that the development of the disorder is a combination of complex factors.
However, research has found some risk factors for the development of anxiety symptoms:
GAD can be diagnosed by a medical doctor or mental health professional. Assessment will involve questions about medical history, including mental health, and the psychosocial difficulties arising from anxiety's psychological and somatic symptoms. A standardized screening, such as the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-Item (GAD-7) questionnaire, may also be administered.
Several medical conditions can cause feelings of anxiety. A physical exam to rule out these conditions is likely to be conducted. Medical testing, including thyroid function tests, blood glucose testing, and toxicology screenings, may also be ordered [4].
There is no surefire preventative measure for GAD, given there is no singular cause for the disorder. There are, however, steps that can be taken to reduce overall anxiety. Anxiety is a natural by-product of the stress response, so learning ways to manage your daily stressors can help lower your feelings of stress.
Treatment for GAD involves either medication, psychotherapy (also known as “talk therapy”), or a combination of both.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is the most widely used psychotherapy approach to treating GAD. This approach teaches skills for managing anxious cognitions through identifying unhelpful thought patterns and working on changing them with the help of a therapist during regularly held appointments. The therapist will also teach new ways of responding to distressing situations that typically provoke anxiety, and de-sensitization strategies to reduce avoidance.
Antidepressants such as Lexapro, Cymbalta, Effexor, or Paxil, may be prescribed by your medical provider. These antidepressants fall into two categories: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). [4] These medications are helpful for the long-term management of symptoms when medically called for. These types of medications can take a few weeks before improvements are felt.
Benzodiazepines may be prescribed for short periods to manage severe symptoms. These medications pose the risk of patients building a tolerance to them and possible addiction. Benzodiazepines should not be prescribed for long-term symptom management. [3]
There is the risk of side effects from medication, including dry mouth, nausea, diarrhea, weight changes, and suicidal thoughts. If prescribed medication, it is important to be honest about possible adverse effects during follow-ups. Daily tracking of symptoms and side effects can help in remembering what information to share with healthcare professionals.
There are self-care strategies that people with GAD can do to manage the condition. These strategies are also great for overall stress management and anxiety prevention.
People who want to help someone with anxiety disorders are often unsure of how to adequately provide support. There are some general tips on how to approach your loved one.
The outlook for people diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder is positive.
Anxiety can be effectively managed with proper treatment, lifestyle changes, and stress management tools. Proper treatment for anxiety disorders includes psychotherapy and medication, or a combination of both.
GAD is diagnosed more often in women than men. It is estimated that one in four children will experience symptoms of anxiety. It is estimated that up to 20% of adults are affected by an anxiety disorder each year, and GAD is one of the most common mental health conditions. [4]
The anxiety and worry that occur with GAD occur across a range of situations, activities, and events. Social anxiety disorder is marked by anxiety that occurs specifically in social situations or when thinking about social interactions.
Resources: