Worrying is a common experience. In today’s world, with endless sources of stress, occasional anxiety is entirely normal. In fact, short-term worry can be a healthy reaction to uncertainty or danger. However, when worrying becomes excessive and persistent, it may indicate generalised anxiety disorder (GAD).
What Is Generalised Anxiety Disorder?
Everyone feels anxious or fearful at times. But if these feelings become overwhelming or occur frequently, leading to panic or chronic stress, it could point to an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions, affecting an estimated 25 million people in Europe (5.4% of the total EU population). Mental health has worsened worldwide since the pandemic, according to WHO.
Unlike other anxiety disorders triggered by specific events, GAD is marked by ongoing worry and unease about everyday issues.
People with GAD often feel an incessant sense of dread or the belief that something bad is bound to happen, leaving them unprepared. They may excessively worry about missing appointments, losing their job, or encountering accidents. Some even develop anxiety about the amount they worry.
Symptoms of Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Symptoms of GAD often include:
o Persistent and excessive worry about multiple aspects of life for six months or more
o Fatigue, restlessness, or trouble sleeping
o Difficulty concentrating
o Irritability
o Muscle tension
o Feeling perpetually “on edge”
Physical symptoms, such as a racing heartbeat, dry mouth, upset stomach, sweating, trembling, and irritability, are also common. These physical manifestations can negatively impact overall health, increasing risks for heart attacks and other cardiovascular conditions.
If you suspect you might have GAD, only a medical professional can provide a definitive diagnosis. Don’t hesitate to consult your doctor to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment options.
How Is Anxiety Treated?
Effective treatment for generalised anxiety disorder typically involves one or more of the following:
Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is often effective for individuals with GAD. This approach helps individuals identify patterns of negative thinking, such as misinterpreting events or catastrophising, and provides tools to manage anxiety-provoking situations more constructively.
Medications
Doctors may prescribe medications like antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications, while slower to take effect than traditional anti-anxiety drugs, often provide more lasting symptom relief.
Are you suffering from these symptoms? Don’t continue to suffer in silence – there is help out there for you. Speak to your medical professional or reach out to the 1579 Mental Health Helpline.
We can support you and your family with overall health screening - speak to us today and we will guide you.
Contact us today on +356 21221355, 9985 2404 or send an email on info@clinipath.com.mt.
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