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Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition in which an individual experiences anxiety and worry which is excessive, in that their anxiety or worry is much more frequent or intense than warranted by the situation. For example, someone who worries about finances while being fairly financially sound may have GAD. People with GAD feel anxious and worried more often than not, and about a number of different events, situations, and activities, such as work, finances, health, school performance, and relationships. Individuals with GAD find it very difficult to control or stop their worries. Symptoms of GAD vary from person to person, but may include one or more of the following:

  • Inability to concentrate or focus
  • Tiredness, or being easily fatigued
  • Irritability
  • Restlessness
  • Problems falling or staying asleep, or unsatisfying sleep
  • Muscle aches or tension
  • Stomachaches or nausea
  • Feeling “keyed up” or “on edge”
  • Worry causes significant distress
  • Anxiety or worry interfere with work, school, or social relationships

Some people who suffer from GAD may do so with little or no identifiable cause. Others may believe their worry is justified or even helps them to maintain safety or high performance at home, work, school, or in other obligations. However, most others would agree that someone with GAD worries at a level that is unnecessary. For individuals with GAD, attempts to alleviate their anxiety, either on their own or with help from loved ones, may be met with failure, or only temporary success.

We at The OCD & Anxiety Center specialize in the treatment of this pervasive anxiety disorder and have the necessary training and resources to deliver evidence-based treatment to GAD sufferers of all ages. We use Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP) in the treatment of GAD, as this is the therapy treatment which has proven most effective for a range of anxiety disorders. Through ERP, individuals with GAD learn to face their anxious triggers while decreasing their use of worry to cope, helping them gradually gain their lives back from GAD. We also offer treatment options which make use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and other third-wave techniques, which have proven very useful in helping individuals with GAD learn to accept anxiety as a part of life, rather than fighting anxious feelings through excessive worry. Finally, if you or someone you know would benefit from our specialized GAD treatment services, please reach out to us at (630) 522-3124 today!