What is Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?
If you are feeling overwhelmed, worrying excessively and experiencing intrusive thoughts, you may be struggling with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD). A complex mental health condition, which varies from individual to individual, GAD can significantly impact your quality of life if excessive feelings of worry, fear and tension, persisting for prolonged periods, disrupt everyday activities.
Symptoms of Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
It is important to note that experiences of these symptoms of GAD can vary in severity from person to person and some of the symptoms can include:
excessive worry, fear or tension
difficulty sleeping
muscle tension
heart palpitations
fatigue
difficulty concentrating
irritability
restlessness
difficulty making decisions
avoidance of certain situations.
Causes of Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD can be a combination of factors, including
genetics
environment, such as a stressful career
life experiences, including a life event or transition
personality traits, such as perfectionism or a low self-esteem
imbalances in brain chemicals, for example, serotonin.
Strategies for managing Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
If you suspect that you are struggling with GAD, it is important to seek professional help from a mental health clinic. Booking an assessment with our specialist multi-disciplinary clinicians will be the first step towards reclaiming your life. There are a variety of treatment options available to help you manage your GAD, depending on your personal preferences.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), delivered in a group setting, can provide a safe and supportive environment to implement strategies for preventing relapse in GAD.
1:1 psychotherapy to help identify the things that trigger GAD. Psychiatry for initial assessment if GAD is severe.
Relaxation techniques to make time for yourself each day to unwind.
Getting enough sleep each night.
Eating a healthy diet, limiting caffeine and alcohol.
Exercising and spending time outside in nature.
Please contact us if you wish to make an appointment or to discuss any queries you might have relating to Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD).