Generalized Anxiety Disorder is when a person worries continuously about a particular area of their life, or about events and catastrophes that may occur in the future. They tend to over-analyze what is happening in their day to day lives with regard to work, health family and finances. Most of their concerns and worries are often repetitive, ongoing and extreme and in most cases, out of proportion to the actual situation. These worries are difficult to control, even though the person may recognise that it is often out of proportion and the person may experience very high levels of anxiety on a regular basis.
Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
* Feelings of displacement
* Hot and cold flushes
* Nausea
* Shortness of breath
* Fear of dying, losing control
* Dry mouth
* Dizziness
* Irritability and agitation
* Breathing distress
* Heart palpitations
* Chest pains
* Tingling sensations
* Trembling
* Sweating
* Feeling of 'going crazy'
* Sleep disturbances
Coping Mechanisms
Many people develop very poor coping strategies in an effort to decrease their high levels of anxiety brought about by their constant and endless worry. These include smoking cigarettes, drinking coffee, using recreational drugs and alcohol. They are unhealthy coping mechanisms and often worsen their already high levels of anxiety.
Useful Strategies
Recovery from generalized anxiety disorder is possible. Treatment and therapies helpful in overcoming generalized anxiety disorder include relaxation and correct breathing techniques, problem solving techniques, cognitive behavioural therapy, anxiety education, self esteem therapy, focusing skills, assertion skills training, perception skills, balanced lifestyle and often medication. If you use medication it is advised to engage in the above therapies as well, and medication should only be used under the direction of a qualified medical practitioner.