GAD is more than occasional nervousness. People with GAD experience constant, excessive worry that is hard to control. It could be about anything going on in your life. People usually notice a particular focus on certain areas of life, such as relationships or work.
This anxiety often doesn’t have a clear cause. People with GAD may feel like they can’t relax, even when there’s no immediate threat. Their minds race with worst-case scenarios, even when they are unlikely.
Common Symptoms of GAD
The symptoms of GAD affect both the mind and body. It’s not just about worry; it also shows up physically. Common symptoms include the following:
- Constant worry: feeling anxious about many things, even without clear reasons.
- Restlessness: feeling on edge or unable to relax.
- Fatigue: feeling drained, even without physical exertion.
- Difficulty concentrating: trouble focusing because the mind keeps wandering.
- Muscle tension: tension in areas like the shoulders, neck, or head.
- Sleep problems: trouble falling or staying asleep because of racing thoughts.
Who Is Affected by GAD?
GAD can affect anyone, but it usually starts in childhood or early adulthood. Women are more likely to experience it, though many men have it too. GAD can develop later in life, but that’s less common. It’s important to remember that GAD doesn’t discriminate—it can affect people from all walks of life.
What Causes GAD?
The exact cause of GAD isn’t completely clear, but multiple factors likely play a role. It’s believed to stem from a mix of genetics, brain function, and life experiences.
- Genetics: A family history of anxiety may increase your chances of developing GAD.
- Brain function: Imbalances in brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, might be involved.
- Life experiences: Traumatic or stressful experiences, particularly when they happen early in life, can contribute to the development of GAD.
Tips for Coping with GAD
Managing GAD requires more than just telling yourself to relax. It takes active effort and strategies to ease constant worry. Here are some ideas:
- Grounding exercises: These help you stay focused on the present moment instead of getting lost in anxiety about the future. Simple breathing or grounding exercises can reduce panic and unease.
- Talking Therapies: Talking Therapies help identify and challenge negative thought patterns that fuel anxiety. It’s effective for treating GAD.
- Routine and structure: Creating a daily routine can help reduce uncertainty. Knowing what to expect can make things feel more manageable.
- Working out: Regular exercise helps lower stress and improve mood. Low-impact workouts are good for lowering cortisol levels in the body as well. Some examples of this type of exercise are walking, reformer Pilates, and swimming. Exercise is not a cure for anxiety, but it is a great way to manage symptoms.
Help Is Available
Living with generalized anxiety disorder can feel like a constant struggle. But with the right support, it’s possible to manage your symptoms and regain control over your mental health.
If your anxiety is interfering with your daily life, or you can’t manage it on your own, it’s important to get help. As a therapist, I can help you explore the root causes of your anxiety and offer guidance to reduce its impact on your life.
Seeking help shows strength, not weakness! You do not need to handle this alone—contact my office to schedule an appointment today.