Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common anxiety disorder that involves chronic worrying, nervousness, and tension. Patients with anxiety suffer from some or all of the following symptoms: constant worrying about many things in life , feeling nervous and anxious, not being able to sleep , trouble relaxing, being so restless that it is hard to sit still, becoming easily annoyed and irritable, feeling afraid as if something awful might happen, and also may complain of fatigue, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension and muscle aches, trembling, being easily startled, sweating, nausea, diarrhea, shortness of breath, and palpitation.
It’s natural to be anxious, worries and fears are a normal part of life, the difference between “normal” worrying and generalized anxiety disorder is that the worrying involved in GAD is debilitating, excessive, intrusive, and persistent .
Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most effective psychotherapy, helping individuals identify and manage anxious thoughts. Medications such as SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, escitalopram), SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine), and benzodiazepines (for short-term use) can help regulate anxiety symptoms. Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, stress management techniques (such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises), and a healthy sleep routine, also play a vital role.
