GENERALISED ANXIETY DISORDER
Generalised anxiety disorder, also known as GAD, is a common mental health problem in which a person has extreme and uncontrollable concern about everyday matters such as their health, their working environment, their relationships, or their money. The worry that is associated with generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is not like other types of anxieties; it is persistent and lasts for at least six months. Even when there is no genuine cause for fear, people who suffer from generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) frequently find it difficult to relax or feel calm. They may find themselves continually preoccupied with “what if” ideas, and they often describe the sensation as being like getting trapped in a cycle of anxiety that they are unable to break free from.
On an emotional level, those who suffer from generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) may have feelings of restlessness, irritability, or difficulty concentrating. On a mental level, they could overthink things or be afraid of making poor choices. Fatigue, muscle tightness (particularly in the neck and shoulders), headaches, nausea, and difficulty sleeping are some of the physical manifestations of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). These symptoms might make it difficult to go about daily life, to work, and to maintain relationships.
Anxiety doesn’t just affect the emotions—it also affects the body. People with GAD often feel tired, tense, or have headaches and stomach problems. They may struggle with sleep, either having trouble falling asleep or waking up in the middle of the night with racing thoughts. Over time, lack of sleep and constant stress can lead to more physical health problems, such as a weak immune system and digestive issues.
At work or school, GAD can make it hard to focus, meet deadlines, or complete tasks efficiently. Some people may find themselves overthinking every detail, which slows them down, while others may put things off because they feel too anxious to start. This can lead to poor performance, self-doubt, and stress about falling behind. If they make a mistake, they may replay it in their minds for hours, worrying about what others think.
Anxiety can also affect relationships with family and friends. People with GAD may seek constant reassurance, asking loved ones if everything is okay or if they made the right decision. While this can seem harmless, over time, it may put a strain on relationships. They may also avoid social events because they feel nervous about talking to people or worry about being judged. This can lead to loneliness and isolation, even when they want to be around others.
One of the hardest things about GAD is that it takes away joy from life. Even during happy moments, the anxious mind is thinking about potential problems. Instead of enjoying a vacation, a birthday party, or a simple outing, they might worry about things going wrong. This can make them feel like they’re missing out on life, even when they’re surrounded by good things.
The good news is that GAD is treatable. Therapy, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can help people learn to manage their anxious thoughts. Simple lifestyle changes, like exercise, deep breathing, reducing caffeine, and following a sleep routine, can also make a big difference. If anxiety is making daily life difficult, talking to a psychologist or doctor can help. With the right support, people with GAD can learn to manage their worries and live a happier, calmer life.
Simple daily practices can help manage generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). These practices include deep breathing exercises, regular physical activity, healthy sleep habits, and mindfulness techniques such as grounding exercises. Writing down worries, limiting screen time, and maintaining connections with supportive people are also beneficial. However, one helpful method is the “5-4-3-2-1” grounding technique, which utilises the senses to bring attention back to the present moment. This technique is a powerful tool when anxiety feels overwhelming.
In situations where anxiety is persistent, strong, or when it interferes with sleep, job, or relationships, it is essential to seek the assistance of a trained professional. The act of seeking the assistance of a therapist or psychologist is not an indication of weakness; rather, it is a step towards recovery. People who suffer from generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) can be treated, and they can go on to live lives that are joyful and satisfying.
