Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

By Gordon Dalwood

There seems to be a number of prevalent myths surrounding the condition of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Many of these myths center on the notion that GAD is not a serious condition and that most people who suffer from it are weak minded. While such stereotypical notions are common, they are not even remotely accurate in terms of their ability to properly diagnose such a condition. GAD is far from a minor psychological hang up. It is a serious debilitating condition that affects millions of people.

GAD is a chronic panic form that is focused on worry and nervousness. Paranoia, fear and nervousness are the feelings a person suffering from GAD will deal with on a regular basis. The feelings will involve personal, family and financial matters. To qualify as GAD, the feelings must be of at least a 6 month duration.

Many symptoms are indicative of those suffering from GAD. They may be symptoms such as chronic insomnia, drowsiness, forgetfulness, lack of energy as well as irritability. The physical aspects start to take over once the anxiety becomes more than the mind can handle. This is what causes the GAD sufferer to lose the ability to focus on common activities.

There are instances of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder among those who have GAD. Events that may have been traumatic can result in flashbacks. This will interfere with the quality of life the person had prior to experiencing these symptoms of GAD and their way of life loses the value when compared to those who do not suffer from GAD. Thus, the importance of seeking treatment for GAD.

The first step in treatment centers on receiving a proper analysis. Such an analysis is administered by a psychiatrist through a series of standardized tests. Once the psychiatrist arrives at the proper diagnosis, he/she will take the next treatment steps. This will usually involve being prescribed anti-anxiety medications intended to curtail the problem.

While many patients respond extremely well to such medication, there are of course others who prefer to use the services of a therapist instead, in order to discuss options with regards to counseling. Likewise, there are also some sufferers who make speedy recoveries after being treated with a combination of the two treatments already mentioned.

It is, however, important not to dismiss engaging in simple lifestyle changes to reduce anxiety. Playing sports, cleaning up one's diet, taking part in hobbies that burn up excess tension can all have a calming and therapeutic. This is why they are considered so valuable.

Those who think GAD is not a serious condition should be dismissed. The opinions of these people are not based on any professional knowledge and are not going to help. The condition is not going to go away by ignoring it and listening to well meaning advice is not advised. This is a myth and has no value as a cure. Seek help from those who know what they are doing.

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