Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Student’s Name Professor’s Name Course Date Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) GAD is defined as excessive, unrealistic, and uncontrollable worry about daily life situations. Symptoms The symptoms of the disorder may vary, but according to Labbate et al., one of the main symptoms is persistent anxiety and worrying that occur almost every day for six months or more (163). This is accompanied by at least three specific anxiety symptoms such as difficulty in concentrating, being easily fatigued, muscle tension, restlessness, and sleep disturbance. Other symptoms for the disorder include indecisiveness, perceiving events and situations as threatening, and overthinking plans. Labbate et al. also point out that for the diagnosis of the disorder, the symptoms must cause substantial psychosocial impairment and distress and cannot be due to another mental disorder. Causes The cause of the disorder is unknown; however, just like many other psychiatric conditions, GAD may arise from the interaction of environmental and biological factors. These factors include development and personality, genetics, differences in brain function and chemistry, and differences in threats perception (Mayo Clinic). Risk factors According to the Mayo Clinic, women are more likely to be diagnosed with GAD compared to men. Other risk factors for the disorder include genetics, personality, and experiences. A third of the risk of experiencing GAD is genetic. In regards to personality, individuals that tend to avoid anything dangerous are associated with the disorder. History of emotional or physical trauma may also increase the risk. Prevention While there is no particular way to predict what will cause GAD in an individual, there are steps that can be taken when one experiences anxiety. According to Mayo Clinic, these steps include avoiding unhealthy substance abuse, careful management of personal time and energy, getting help early, and maintaining a journal. History o...