Everyone occasionally gets nervous before things like job interviews and doctor’s appointments. In most cases, the worry is generally proportional to the situation at hand and resolves on its own once the perceived threat passes. But people with generalized anxiety disorder feel on edge almost all the time, even when there’s no obvious cause for concern.
Understanding your anxiety allows you to find targeted treatments that work for you. Here’s what to know about GAD and how to reclaim your quality of life.
GAD vs. Everyday Worries
GAD is a chronic mental health condition marked by excessive concern about everyday issues like your health, finances, family, safety, or work performance. The worry is often overblown and can linger for six months or more, regardless of reassurance or logic.
Its non-specific nature makes this form of anxiety tricky to live with. You might get anxious about seemingly frivolous things that wouldn’t bother someone else. You could even start becoming self-conscious about how uneasy you feel. Over time, this constant tension can erode your confidence, damage your relationships, and sap your energy.
Why Do Some People Develop GAD?
The causes of generalized anxiety disorder are complex and multifaceted.
- Genetics: A family history of anxiety may increase your likelihood of developing it.
- Brain chemistry: Imbalanced neurotransmitters like serotonin or dopamine can contribute to heightened anxiety.
- Life experiences: Trauma, chronic stress, or childhood adversity can rewire how your brain processes danger.
- Personality traits: Perfectionism, low self-esteem, or a tendency toward overthinking may heighten your vulnerability.
- Environmental factors: Ongoing stress from work, relationships, or financial insecurity feed anxiety over time.
Substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions like depression, PTSD, or social anxiety can intensify GAD symptoms.
Common Symptoms of GAD
GAD doesn’t only live inside your mind. It can also take a toll on your body and behavior. Symptoms may include:
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Muscle tension or body aches
- Trouble concentrating
- Depersonalization, or feeling detached from yourself and your surroundings
- Irritability or mood swings
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Fatigue, even after a full night’s rest
- Elevated heart rate or shortness of breath
- Persistent dread without an evident trigger
These symptoms may ebb and flow, becoming more intense and harder to manage when left untreated.
How Is GAD Diagnosed?
If your anxiety feels unrelenting or begins to interfere with your daily life, don’t ignore it. Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a licensed mental health professional. To meet the clinical criteria for GAD, your symptoms must be present most days for at least six months and cause significant distress or impairment.
A GAD diagnosis typically involves a:
- Review of your medical history
- Discussion about your symptoms and daily functioning
- Physical exam or lab tests to rule out other causes (like thyroid problems)
- Mental health assessment
Treatment Options for GAD
Fortunately, GAD responds to treatment. While some people benefit from medication like SSRIs or anti-anxiety medications, drug-free remedies can also be extremely effective as part of a personalized care plan that includes evidence-based therapies and lifestyle changes.
- Exercise regularly to release endorphins and reduce tension.
- Limit caffeine and sugar, which can worsen physical symptoms of anxiety.
- Get outside daily to boost vitamin D and reset your circadian rhythm.
- Practice healthy sleep hygiene by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.
- Take digital breaks to reduce information overload and doomscrolling.
- Try hobbies or creative outlets to shift focus from worry to presence.
Say Goodbye to Chronic Worry
Occasional stress is part of life, but you don’t have to live in a constant state of high alert. Ask for help if your anxiety disrupts your relationships, work, or ability to enjoy life.
Palm Springs Behavioral Health offers compassionate, evidence-based treatment for anxiety and co-occurring disorders in a peaceful, supportive environment. Whether you’re just beginning your quest for improved mental health or looking to deepen your recovery, we’re here to help you find calm in the chaos. Reach out today to explore your treatment options.