Stress is an inescapable part of our daily lives. Pressures from family, finances, and work can leave you feeling anxious and on edge. Sometimes those feelings refuse to go away, even when you reach calmer moments. In that case, you might be asking: “do I have generalized anxiety disorder?”
Generalized anxiety disorder is a condition where all-around nervousness seems to dictate your way of life, leaving you in a constant state of alarm, with no obvious triggers.
Almost 7 million U.S. adults, or about 2.7 percent of the population, suffer from a generalized anxiety disorder, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
If you’re wondering, “do I have generalized anxiety disorder?” then you’re smart to want to learn more about the disorder and anxiety counseling programs in Florida.
Nervous All the Time
Everyone gets nervous. But how do you know when it’s something more than just everyday stress? What does generalized anxiety feel like?
Someone struggling with generalized anxiety disorder contends with worry or nerves all the time — even when there are no obvious triggers. They have difficulty making it through the day and sometimes fear setting foot outside.
People with the condition report feeling like their brains are stuck in repeat mode. They cycle through negative thoughts, and no amount of reason breaks the cycle.
Do I Have Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Medical professionals consider several signals when diagnosing generalized anxiety disorder. In general, a person must have “excessive worry or anxiety,” that is difficult to control, for at least six months. That excessive worry needs to include at least three of the following symptoms:
- Restlessness; feeling on edge and that something bad is about to happen
- Fatigue that sometimes interferes with your daily activities
- Challenges in concentration and focus
- Irritability
- Anger
- Muscle tension, aches, or pains
Help is Available for Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Your next question after “do I have generalized anxiety disorder” may well be: what kind of help is available? Treatment options are available to help break the cycle and help you enjoy life again.
Psychotherapy can help generalized anxiety disorder sufferers get their lives back on track. One form that’s frequently used is cognitive-behavioral therapy, where counselors help you identify patterns or challenge you to confront your fears.
Medication is also an option. Various forms of anti-depressants are effective in combating anxiety, as depression and anxiety share many traits. Sedating drugs in the benzodiazepine category, such as valium, may also be helpful in extreme cases. You may find doctors are very careful in prescribing these as they come with a risk of dependency.
Quite often the most effective treatments involve therapy and medication, along with changes in lifestyle such as increased exercise or meditation. Consult your medical professional to find the mix that’s right for you.
Find Help Today at Remedy Therapy
“Do I have generalized anxiety disorder?” If you’re feeling anxious all the time, or are concerned about a loved one, Remedy Therapy in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida can help. Our counselors provide various forms of counseling services, including, family, individual, and group therapy. We also help with other aspects of your emotional care, such as medication counseling management. Contact us at 561.414.2607 to get the answers you deserve.
