GAD, or generalized anxiety disorder, leaves those troubled by it tossing and turning at night, constantly worrying, and predicting the worst-case scenario. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, or NIMH, approximately 6.8 American adults have GAD in a given year, and most people with GAD have other anxiety disorders including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder or social phobia. Though no single, identifiable cause for GAD exists, researchers believe it to be multi-causal and a result of a disruption of brain chemicals and genetic factors.
Significance
About 40 million Americans have some kind of anxiety disorder. Generalized anxiety disorder affects about 3.1 percent of adults. GAD can be quite impairing and can occur with other disorders such as depression and substance use disorders, compounding dysfunction. According to the NIMH, worrying from GAD can prohibit the completion of everyday tasks. Gaining an understanding of what causes GAD can help identify effective treatments to reduce suffering and enhance the quality of life for those suffering from it.
Identification
Everyone worries from time to time about something minor, or in proportion to a major stressor. But those with GAD worry excessively more days than not for at least six months. They worry disproportionately about a number of areas of their lives--work, school, illness, or death--when no compelling threat exists. According to the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders," many physical symptoms, such as restlessness, excessive fatigue, poor concentration, irritability, muscle tension and sleep disturbance make up GAD. Trouble controlling this worry significantly reduces functioning in relationships and work.
Theories/Speculation
No one knows for sure what causes GAD. The NIMH postulates that GAD is likely a compilation of psychological, developmental, environmental and genetic factors. The NIMH does pinpoint genetics and brain chemistry as specific factors contributing to GAD symptoms. Imaging and neuro-chemical studies also indicate that two parts of the brain, the amygdala and the hippocampus, play a considerable role in most anxiety disorders, including GAD. The amygdala is an almond-shaped structure deep in the brain that interprets and processes incoming sensory information, and communicates it to other parts of the brain. The hippocampus programs frightening experiences into memories. Changes in structure or function in these components may increase susceptibility to GAD. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that current research on GAD and anxiety consider environmental factors such as pollution, stress and diet as factors in the development of anxiety disorders and GAD.
Solultion
Medications and psychotherapy can help treat GAD. According to the NIMH, antidepressants, anti-anxiety medicines and beta blockers help reduce GAD symptoms, making them more manageable. Antidepressants may take several weeks at a therapeutic dose to be effective, and some anti-anxiety medicines carry the potential for building a tolerance and addiction. Stopping these medicines abruptly can precipitate severe anxiety symptoms. Always follow your physician's advice when taking medications. To reduce anxiety, a licensed mental health professional can offer cognitive behavioral therapy, an effective psychotherapy treatment geared to teach those with GAD how worried thoughts contribute to anxious emotions and behaviors. Additional types of talk therapy can also help reduce GAD symptoms.
Considerations
GAD develops gradually, and symptoms may vary over time depending on the intensity of stressors. Many people visit their doctors with specific physical complaints, such as headaches or sleep difficulties, and receive only symptomatic treatment for these specific complaints, not GAD. Many physical disorders and side effects of medications can create symptoms of anxiety. Getting a full physical exam and psychiatric evaluation ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
References
- NIMH: The Numbers Count
- NIMH: Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- NIMH: Anxiety Disorders
- "The Quick Reference Guide to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders"; American Psychiatric Association; 2000
