Patients often ask how they can differentiate between everyday stress and anxiety and something more serious. While the best advice is to schedule a consultation, there are a few things that can help you to determine whether you may have Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD.

GAD is a pattern of frequent, constant worry and anxiety, even about everyday activities and events. Even when a person with GAD is aware that their worries are stronger than they should be, they may still have difficulty controlling them. Although this condition is common, its cause is still unknown. Biological and psychological factors play a role, but so do stressful situations or behavior learned over a lifetime. GAD can strike anyone at any age, but it occurs more frequently in women than in men:

Symptoms include:

People with GAD may not feel this way 100% of the time, but they often complain of feelings of anxiety without an obvious reason.

GAD is a chronic condition that requires treatment. Stressful events can always trigger GAD to flare up, so it’s important to seek help to learn about the various ways you can cope with it. You should see your doctor if your worrying is beginning to interfere with your work and relationships, if you feel depressed, or if you have mental health concerns. A physical exam and evaluation can help rule out other possibilities or causes of anxiety. The evaluation process typically includes a psychological exam and any additional tests your physician deems necessary. If you do have GAD, your symptoms will not likely go away on their own, and they may actually get worse.

The experienced doctors and staff at Solace Counseling can help guide you through the process and get you started with anxiety treatment today.