Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Signs and Symptoms.
Anxiety at some point in time will be experienced by every individual to some degree. Generally, we try not to judge or suppress when the feeling of anxiety comes up. I do not want to judge any emotion that I feel. Having emotions is a part of the human experience. Thus, I will feel ranges of emotions such as happiness, sadness, anger, anxiety, joy, and excitement. When we react to any emotion in an unhealthy way, we can easily reinforce disordered views and behaviors. Anxiety can easily be reinforced which distorts how we view ourselves, the world and other people. This is where anxiety disorders start to develop. An unhealthy cycle of thoughts, emotions and behaviors that reinforce cycles of anxiety. There are many different anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, specific phobias, agoraphobia, separation anxiety disorder and selective mutism. Below are some common signs and symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Excessive anxiety and worry (apprehensive expectation), occurring more days than not for at least 6 months. Anxiety is present about a number of events.
Difficult to control the worry.
Physical Symptoms: Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge, being easily fatigued, Difficulty concentrating, Irritability, Muscle tension, Sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless unsatisfying sleep).
E. The anxiety, worry, or physical symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment. Impairment is seen in social settings, work and other areas of functioning.
These are common red flags, however, anxiety is a nuanced and individualized experience that doesn't adhere to a one-size-fits-all narrative. By increasing ones awareness to the ways anxiety presents itself, one can better disrupt the cycle of anxiety before it grows too large. If you or your loved one is struggling with their mental health, please reach out and we can schedule a free consultation to discuss treatment options.
