Generalized anxiety disorder, also known as GAD, is among the most common anxiety disorders. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), generalized anxiety disorder affects around 6.8 million adults every year in the US.
It is further said that generalized anxiety disorder is more likely to affect women compared to men and it typically co-occurs with major depressive disorder, which is another severe psychological condition.
In this article today, I’m going to cover everything you need to know about generalized anxiety disorder, so let’s have a look:
Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
If you happen to have the following symptoms or at least 3-4 of them for six months or more, the odds are you have a generalized anxiety disorder. These symptoms include:
- Difficulty controlling feelings of worry
- Unnecessary and uncontrollable fears
- Muscle tension and fatigue
- Irritable mood and anger outbursts
- Difficulty concentrating and mind going blank
- Feeling restless, on the edge, or wound-up
- Sleep and digestive issues
Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder is not as complicated to treat as other mood and psychotic disorders. Thankfully, it can be treated both ways, medically and naturally. Thus, here are a few effective treatment options for generalized anxiety disorder:
An Allopathic Course
For generalized anxiety disorders, physicians usually recommended selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). They both belong to a class of medications that are effective in treating anxiety and depression. However, they have plenty of side effects; therefore, you need to be mindful when taking them.
Herbs and Plants
The second option is to use herbs and plants. In fact, herbs and plants are a natural alternative to anti-anxiety medications. Since they’re natural, they have no side effects and are absolutely safe for regular usage. A few examples of effective anti-anxiety herbs and plants are ashwagandha, Canadian shrooms, passionflower, and valerian root.
Lifestyle Rehabilitation
Speaking of treatment options for generalized anxiety disorder, lifestyle rehabilitation is mandatory. An active lifestyle is a key to recovering from GAD. Hence, for starters, you must add exercise to your daily routine. Secondly, you need to make a habit of meditating twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. It’s exceptionally beneficial as it will make you feel better instantly.
Psychotherapy
Last but not least, you can consult a psychotherapist for clinical therapy. Generalized anxiety disorder is often a result of a traumatic event or bottled-up emotions. Unfolding your emotions is essential when treating GAD; however, you cannot do that on your own. If you can talk to a friend or family member about it, it’s a great option. But if you can’t, then therapy is what you should seek.
The Takeaway
In the end, please know that GAD is completely curable, and it’s natural to have a mental disorder. Thus, you must not give in to the stigmas attached to mental health and treat your mind and body like a temple. After all, it’s for your own good. I hope you get well soon, my pals!