What are the symptoms of GAD?
Symptoms of GAD can vary, but some common ones include:
- Feeling restless or on edge
- Being easily fatigued
- Having trouble concentrating or feeling like your mind goes blank
- Being irritable
- Having muscle tension
- Problems with sleep, such as trouble falling or staying asleep
What causes GAD?
The exact cause of GAD is not fully known, but several factors may contribute, including:
- Genetics – anxiety can run in families
- Brain chemistry – an imbalance in brain chemicals may play a role
- Life events – stressful or traumatic events can trigger anxiety
- Learned behaviour – growing up in an anxious environment may influence how one copes with stress
How common is GAD?
GAD is fairly common. It is estimated to affect around 5 out of every 100 people in the UK at some point in their lives. It can happen at any age but often starts in young adulthood.
Who is more likely to get GAD?
Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing GAD, including:
- Having a family history of anxiety or other mental health conditions
- Experiencing stressful life events, such as a bereavement or relationship problems
- Having another mental health condition, such as depression
- Being a perfectionist or having high levels of stress in life
How can I treat GAD?
GAD can be treated using different approaches, including:
- Therapy – talking to a therapist can help manage anxiety symptoms
- Medication – some people may be prescribed medicine to help with anxiety (like diazepam, quetiapine, sertraline, trazodone or venlafaxine)
- Lifestyle changes – regular exercise, a healthy diet, and relaxation techniques can help reduce anxiety
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How to live with GAD?
Living with GAD can be challenging, but there are strategies to help:
- Practice relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing
- Stay connected with family and friends for support
- Keep a journal to express feelings and track anxiety triggers
- Set realistic goals and take small steps to manage daily tasks
What support is available for people with generalised anxiety disorder?
Many resources are available for those living with GAD, including:
- Support groups – connecting with others who share similar experiences can be helpful
- Counselling services – many organisations offer affordable or free counselling
- Online resources – websites such as Mind or Anxiety UK provide valuable information and support
Final thoughts
Generalised anxiety disorder can greatly impact a person’s life, but effective treatments are available. If you are concerned about anxiety, it is important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider for support.
