Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

We all worry about different things like school, finances, or relationships from time to time. However, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is different from normal anxious feelings. An individual with GAD may worry about a variety of things excessively and uncontrollably, even if there is no reason to worry. 

Some common signs of GAD are: 
  • Excessive anxiety present more days than not for 6 months 
  • Constant worry, out of proportion to the impact of an event 
  • Overthinking plans and solutions to worse-case outcomes 
  • Difficulty with uncertainty 
  • Difficulty controlling worry 
  • Difficulty making decisions, or fear of making wrong decisions 
  • Difficulty with concentration 
  • Feeling restless or on edge, trouble relaxing
  • This excessive anxiety is impacting daily functioning  
Individuals with GAD can also experience physical symptoms like restlessness, fatigue, sweating, difficulty concentrating, nausea, digestive problems, irritability, muscle tension, or difficulty with sleep. 

Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Children 

Children with GAD worry excessively about a variety of things like school, grades, family, relationships with peers, or performance in sports. This can cause children to experience the above symptoms just as adults do, although children often present with increased physical symptoms when dealing with anxiety. Additionally, children with GAD tend to be very hard on themselves and strive for perfection, which can cause a need to seek reassurance or approval from others. 

How is Generalized Anxiety Disorder treated?

One of the anxiety treatment options is a psychotherapy approach called cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT has been shown to help individuals with GAD change their thinking patterns by recognizing and controlling anxious thoughts. Additionally, CBT can help individuals learn different ways to cope with anxious thoughts and feelings when they do arise. 


If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, you may be suffering from generalized anxiety or another anxiety disorder. Contact us for a free 15 minute phone consultation to discuss the anxiety treatment options.

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