Everyone gets anxious sometimes, but if your worries and fears are so constant that they interfere with your ability to function and relax, you may have generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). GAD is a common anxiety disorder that involves constant and chronic worrying, nervousness, and tension.

What’s the difference between “normal” worry and GAD?

Worries, doubts, and fears are a normal part of life. It’s natural to be anxious about an upcoming test or to worry about your finances after being hit by unexpected bills. The difference between “normal” worrying and GAD is that the worrying involved in GAD is:

• Excessive (extreme).
• Intrusive (invasive/disturbing).
• Persistent (not going away).
• Disruptive (negatively influencing daily work or social activities).

What are the signs and symptoms of GAD?

Not everyone with GAD has the same symptoms, but most people experience a combination of emotional, behavioural, and physical symptoms that often change, becoming worse at times of stress.

Emotional symptoms include:

• Constant worries running through your head.
• Feeling like your anxiety is uncontrollable; there is nothing you can do to stop the worrying.
• Intrusive thoughts about things that make you anxious; you try to avoid thinking about them, but you can’t.
• An inability to tolerate uncertainty; you need to know what’s going to happen in the future.
• A pervasive feeling of apprehension or dread.

Behavioural symptoms include:

• Not being able to relax, enjoy quiet time, or be by yourself.
• Difficulty concentrating or focusing on things.
• Putting things off because you feel overwhelmed.
• Avoiding situations that make you anxious.

Physical symptoms include:

• Feeling tense; having muscle tightness or body aches.
• Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep because your mind won’t quit.
• Feeling edgy, restless, or jumpy.
• Stomach problems, nausea, diarrhoea.

Who to turn to for help

Our trained professionals can help you manage your anxiety by changing the way you think and behave when faced with GAD. If you struggle with anxiety and feel that you need professional help, reach out to our Mental Health Services at 014 590 1700.