Worry is a fairly normal part of life, and many experience varying degrees of fear and worry on a relatively regular basis. However, when this worry becomes a near constant presence that interferes with daily activities, it may indicate what is known as generalized anxiety disorder. Individuals suffering from this disorder may experience periods where they are constantly anxious and on edge as well as times when fear is all-consuming. Another common characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder is a sense that something terrible is about to happen, even though there is no apparent source or threat causing this fear.
Generalized anxiety disorder can be defined as chronic, excessive worry that impacts numerous areas of daily life, including relationships and even physical health. People suffering from this disorder typically share the same worries that most people have; often focusing on health issues, money, relationships, work and school, but the severity of these worries goes far beyond what most people experience on a daily basis. In some cases, these fears can be almost incapacitating.
The Difference Between Normal Worries and Generalized Anxiety Disorder
So what exactly makes generalized anxiety disorder different from normal, day-to-day worry? Normal worries can also be controlled, either by putting them out of mind or finding relaxation strategies to cope with them. On the other hand, worries experienced by those suffering from generalized anxiety disorder are virtually uncontrollable.
In some cases, people with generalized anxiety may envision the worst case scenario for normal events. For example, sending a child off for the first day of school may lead to worrying about the possibility of a school shooting or terrorist attack. Despite the fact that these events are both highly unusual and unlikely, a person with generalized anxiety may spend hours, days or even weeks consumed with fear about such an event.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by both physical and psychological symptoms. Physical symptoms include fatigue, jumpiness, muscle tension, muscle aches, trouble sleeping, nausea and stomach cramps. The psychological symptoms include feelings of impending doom, dread, trouble concentrating and irritability.
When these symptoms interfere with normal daily life, it is important to seek out help. In some cases this might involve making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding high-stress situations. Other treatments may involve cognitive behavioral therapy or taking anti-anxiety medication. While the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder can be severe and debilitating, understanding that these fears are excessive and seeking the appropriate help can provide a new outlook on an anxiety-free life.
Generalized anxiety disorder can be defined as chronic, excessive worry that impacts numerous areas of daily life, including relationships and even physical health. People suffering from this disorder typically share the same worries that most people have; often focusing on health issues, money, relationships, work and school, but the severity of these worries goes far beyond what most people experience on a daily basis. In some cases, these fears can be almost incapacitating.
The Difference Between Normal Worries and Generalized Anxiety Disorder
So what exactly makes generalized anxiety disorder different from normal, day-to-day worry? Normal worries can also be controlled, either by putting them out of mind or finding relaxation strategies to cope with them. On the other hand, worries experienced by those suffering from generalized anxiety disorder are virtually uncontrollable.
In some cases, people with generalized anxiety may envision the worst case scenario for normal events. For example, sending a child off for the first day of school may lead to worrying about the possibility of a school shooting or terrorist attack. Despite the fact that these events are both highly unusual and unlikely, a person with generalized anxiety may spend hours, days or even weeks consumed with fear about such an event.
Common Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by both physical and psychological symptoms. Physical symptoms include fatigue, jumpiness, muscle tension, muscle aches, trouble sleeping, nausea and stomach cramps. The psychological symptoms include feelings of impending doom, dread, trouble concentrating and irritability.
When these symptoms interfere with normal daily life, it is important to seek out help. In some cases this might involve making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding high-stress situations. Other treatments may involve cognitive behavioral therapy or taking anti-anxiety medication. While the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder can be severe and debilitating, understanding that these fears are excessive and seeking the appropriate help can provide a new outlook on an anxiety-free life.
