Anxiety

How to define anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal human emotion that many individuals experience periodically, such as concerns about health, finances, or relationships.

However, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) surpasses the typical levels of anxiety. It is a mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry about a wide range of issues, often disproportionate to the actual circumstances.

The reality is that individuals with GAD constantly experience feelings of worry and anxiety, nearly every day. Their anxiety becomes uncontrollable to the extent that it interferes with their work, relationships, and other aspects of daily life. GAD can also manifest physical symptoms like muscle tension and sleep disturbances, and it can impair concentration and clear thinking.

While there is no known cure for generalized anxiety disorder, there are effective treatments and therapies available. Recognizing GAD as a mental health condition is crucial in obtaining the appropriate diagnosis and taking steps to manage and control the symptoms.

What causes anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are highly prevalent and considered the most common mental illness in the United States. Nearly 6% of adults in the U.S. will experience generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) at some point in their lives. However, the exact causes of GAD remain uncertain.

Similar to other mental illnesses, the development of GAD may be associated with various factors, including:

• Genetics: Research indicates that anxiety disorders tend to run in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. If you have a family member with an anxiety disorder, your own likelihood of developing one may be increased.
• Biology: Individuals with GAD may exhibit alterations in certain brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, which can influence mood and anxiety.
• Environment: Stressful life events, including traumatic experiences like death, violence, or medical problems, can act as triggers for anxiety disorders.

In adults, GAD is more commonly observed in women than in men. It is also worth noting that anxiety disorders frequently coexist with depression, with over half of those diagnosed with GAD also experiencing symptoms of major depression.

What are the main symptoms of anxiety?

The primary characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is persistent fear or worry. Individuals with GAD may also exhibit both physical and emotional symptoms.
Common symptoms shared by individuals with GAD include:

• Experiencing intense anxiety or worry on almost a daily basis.
• Feeling fearful about a broad range of everyday situations such as work, finances, relationships, and health, as well as anticipating negative events in the future.
• Difficulty controlling anxiety and worry.

Additionally, individuals with GAD may also experience some or all the following symptoms:

• Restlessness or a constant feeling of being “on edge.”
• Fatigue that is quickly triggered.
• Problems with concentration and focus.
• Irritability.
• Muscle tension.
• Sleep disturbances.

These symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s ability to cope with their daily life. People with anxiety disorders often withdraw from social events and relationships, and they may encounter challenges at work, school, or in other areas of their life.

How to diagnose anxiety?

If you are concerned about having generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), it is advisable to speak with a healthcare professional, particularly if you have been experiencing symptoms for an extended period. You can also consider taking an anxiety test provided by Mental Health America to assess whether seeking professional help is warranted.

During your appointment with a healthcare provider, they will inquire about your symptoms and medical history. They may request you to complete a specific questionnaire designed to gain a better understanding of your condition. Based on this information, the provider will assess the likelihood of GAD. In many cases, they may also utilize the DSM-5, a guidebook, to confirm the diagnosis.

Your healthcare provider might also recommend a physical examination or blood tests to rule out any physical factors that could be contributing to your anxiety, such as thyroid issues. Additionally, they may refer you to a mental health specialist such as a psychiatrist or therapist for more specialized care.

See all medications related to Anxiety

Which medications are used for anxiety?

If you are experiencing significant distress due to anxiety, it might be worth considering medication, especially if your symptoms hinder your daily functioning or impede your ability to seek treatment. In many cases, a combination of medication and therapy is employed to address anxiety.

Medications commonly used for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) include:

• Antidepressants
• Benzodiazepines
• Hydroxyzine (Vistaril)
• Buspirone (Buspar)

These medications can only be obtained with a prescription. Some are intended for regular daily use to gradually reduce overall anxiety levels, while others can be taken on an as-needed basis for immediate relief.

The duration of medication usage varies among individuals. Some people may only require medication for a few months before discontinuing, while others may need long-term treatment.
It is important to discuss your options with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable approach for you. It may take some time to find the right medication, as individual responses to medications can vary. It may be necessary to try different options before discovering the most effective one for your specific needs.

What treatments are good for anxiety?

Therapy is an excellent treatment option for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), either as a standalone approach or in conjunction with medications.

One of the most successful therapies for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of therapy that focuses on recognizing, comprehending, and modifying one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Engaging with a CBT therapist can assist you in:

• Learning strategies to manage anxious thoughts.
• Acquiring coping skills to effectively handle anxiety.
• Confronting and confronting your fears.

Another effective therapy for GAD is acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), which emphasizes mindfulness techniques to help you detach from anxious thoughts. With time, you will realize that anxiety does not have to dictate your decisions, even when you experience fear.

In addition to therapy, seeking support and connection from others can greatly contribute to your recovery. Consider joining an anxiety support group or connecting with peers, either in-person or through virtual platforms, as part of your treatment plan.