Facts about Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by 6 months
or more of chronic, exaggerated worry and tension that is
unfounded or much more severe than the normal anxiety most
people experience. People with this disorder usually expect the
worst; they worry excessively about money, health, family, or
work, even when there are no signs of trouble. They are unable
to relax and often suffer from insomnia. Many people with GAD
also have physical symptoms, such as fatigue, trembling, muscle
tension, headaches, irritability or hot flashes. Fortunately,
through research supported by the National Institute of Mental
Health (NIMH) and by industry, effective treatments have been
developed to help people with GAD.
How Common Is GAD?
* About 2.8 percent of the adult U.S. population ages 18 to
54?approximately 4 million Americans?has GAD during the course
of a given year. * GAD most often strikes people in childhood or
adolescence, but can begin in adulthood, too. It affects women
more often than men.
What Causes GAD?
Some research suggests that GAD may run in families, and it may
also grow worse during stress. GAD usually begins at an earlier
age and symptoms may manifest themselves more slowly than in
most other anxiety disorders . What Treatments Are Available for
GAD? Treatments for GAD include medications and
cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Can People With GAD Also Have Other Illnesses?
Research shows that GAD often coexists with depression,
substance abuse, or other anxiety disorders. Other conditions
associated with stress, such as irritable bowel syndrome, often
accompany GAD. Patients with physical symptoms such as insomnia
or headaches should also tell their doctors about their feelings
of worry and tension. This will help the patient's health care
provider to recognize that the person is suffering from GAD.