GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

is identified by excessive, uncontrollable worrying paired with a multitude of physical symptoms. Individuals experiencing a generalized anxiety disorder often have common worries, such as: financial health, the safety of their family members, their forms of livelihood, etc. These worries may seem as typical worries of the general population, however individuals with generalized anxiety disorder describe these worries as more highlighted, lasting longer than other worries, occurring frequently, and accompanied by physical symptoms.

GAD may manifest itself in the following physical ways:

  • Restlessness or a feeling of being on edge

  • Constant fatigue

  • Spacing out and/or having difficulty concentrating on tasks

  • Muscle tension throughout the body

  • Irritability

  • Lack of sleep and/or disturbed sleep cycles

Demographics of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):

In the United States, generalized anxiety disorder is classified as one of the most common mental illnesses. In fact, GAD is prevalent among 2.9% of adults in the United States in any 12-month period. Furthermore, females are twice as likely to experience GAD than males. The median age of generalized anxiety onset is 30 years old, however the range of GAD onset widely varies. The key difference of GAD among various age groups is the topic of worrying. For example, younger adults/adolescents tend to worry about activities in school or adolescent peers versus older adults often worry about their health or finances. In addition, younger adults diagnosed with GAD have more severe symptoms than older counterparts with GAD. Regardless, excessive worrying, caused by GAD, impairs any individual’s bandwidth to complete tasks in a timely manner, causes fatigue, interferes with a good night’s rest, and many other consequences. It’s important to get diagnosed for GAD in a timely manner and seek out mental health assistance.

Treatment of GAD with KOR Results

KOR Results uses common evidence-based treatment models to treat clients experiencing GAD in California.  Our therapists use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy (ET), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness Awareness Training to alleviate the excessive worrying and physical symptoms associated with the generalized anxiety disorder. These mental therapy approaches help individuals understand irrational thinking errors, underlying maladaptive beliefs, how these cognitive processes impact emotions and behavior.  Once properly addressed, individuals experiencing GAD are often able to feel relief from anxiety. Medication may also play a role in your recovery.  KOR Results consults with your psychiatrist to ensure cross-provider collaboration.  If you need a referral for a psychiatrist, please let our LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) know and we will provide you with one.

At KOR Results the aim is to help you achieve results.  We want you to thrive and live your life on your terms!  Have the ability to participate in the activities that matter to you the most.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can often be misdiagnosed as GAD. Both disorders have commonalities, such as: rumination, jumping from one worry to the next, and some common physical symptoms. However, it’s important to distinguish that individuals experiencing OCD have intrusive thoughts accommodated by rituals to relieve the anxiety they may feel.

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