The Top Signs/Symptoms of Generalised Anxiety Disorder (Chronic Worry)
Worry & Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
People struggling with Generalised Anxiety Disorder rarely use that term. More often, they simply describe themselves as "chronic worriers". This is perhaps due to the fact that Generalised Anxiety Disorder, or GAD for short, is not as well-known an anxiety disorder as, say, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). GAD, however, is not an uncommon form of anxiety. Many people simply are unaware of this more clinical name for “debilitating worry”. Generalised Anxiety Disorder is a common, recognised mental health issue, effecting 4% of all people in their lifetime (DSM-IV; APA, 1994), and makes up 12% of all cases of anxiety issues.
Signs of Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Physical
Sensations
Restlessness
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating
Mind going blank
Irritability
Muscle Tension
Sleep disturbance, including difficult falling asleep, staying asleep, or restless sleeping
Behaviours
Persistently worrying about different things
Constantly seeking reassurance.
Avoiding situations that might cause worrying, such as the news or uncertainty.
Trying to avoid worrying using various forms of distraction, such as watching TV or focusing on work.
Checking. For example, checking where a child or partner is
Feelings
Feeling on edge
Anxious
Apprehensive
Tired
Overwhelmed
Feelings of unreality
Panic
Nausea
Tense
Thoughts
“I can’t control or stop worrying”
“If I don’t worry something bad will happen.”
“I’m going crazy with worrying.”
“What if X? What if Y?”
“If X, or if Y, then something terrible might happen.”
“I can’t cope.
More Info:
Below is a YouTube Video briefly describing GAD:
Next Steps
If you think you might be struggling with chronic worry / GAD, there is hope. Therapy, and especially Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, have been shown to use effective strategies to reduce the negative impacts of GAD. If you would like to work with me, feel free to contact me. Otherwise, locate a local CBT therapist or perhaps speak to your doctor, who may be able to help.