May
6

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

People who have this disorder feel exaggerated worry and tension even though there is little to provoke the anxiety. Individuals are unable to relax and they startle easily. People with GAD anticipate disaster, often excessively worrying about health, money, family, and work.  

People with this disorder have a hard time to let go of their concerns, even though they usually realize that their anxiety level does not match the situation. 

Worries are accompanied with physical symptoms such as, fatigue, chronic headaches, difficulty swallowing, difficulty sleeping, trembling, twitching, irritability, sweating, stomach problems, and shortness of breath.  

The difference between this disorder and other anxiety disorders is that people affected with GAD do not commence in avoidant behavior. The level of anxiety is mild to moderate. Most people can complete their daily work however; if the level of anxiety is severe or marked this disorder can be debilitating and can affect daily living. 

My suggestion again is to get diagnosed. Educate yourself on your diagnosis and then return to the doctor’s office and collaborate with the doctor to form your plan of care.  

Remember, the doctors are in business because of us, the patients.  No one knows your body more than yourself. That is why your relationship with your doctor needs to be fluid, moving back and forth with information and choices about treatment. 

Take a breath and move forward! Be your best advocate!  

 

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Posted by julie Blogroll, Knowledge Subscribe to RSS feed

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