GENERAL ANXIETY DISORDER (GAD)
OVERCOMING GAD
Understanding General Anxiety Disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by an overwhelming and persistent worry that is challenging to manage, accompanied by a variety of anxiety symptoms. This intense concern and anxiety can substantially disrupt both social interactions and professional responsibilities. Individuals with GAD often experience a broad spectrum of worry encompassing various event, rather than being focused on specific issues or stimuli.
Common Symptoms of GAD Include:
Restlessness and feeling on edge
Irritability
Easily fatigued
Muscle tension
Difficulty concentrating
Disturbed sleep
Effective GAD Treatment
This disproportionate worry and anxiety can be mentally and physically draining, interfering with work, relationships, and overall quality of life. GAD often co-occurs with other anxiety disorders or depression.
While the exact causes are unknown, GAD likely results from a combination of biological and environmental factors like genes, brain chemistry, stressful life events, and learned coping patterns. At our practice, we provide evidence-based GAD treatment tailored to your unique needs. Our therapeutic approaches include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is the gold standard for treating GAD. CBT assists individuals in identifying beliefs associated with anxiety and worry. Utilizing tools like a worry log helps individuals monitor their worries and challenge maladaptive assumptions. Relaxation techniques, mindfulness training, and problem-solving skills will also be taught to help individuals navigate anxiety.
Mindfulness Practices
Practicing mindfulness can help individuals develop a different relationship with their mind and learn how to observe their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without getting caught up in ideas and opinions. Being mindful means observing our inner experience non-judgmentally while staying present with what we have chosen to focus on.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on cultivating psychological flexibility. ACT helps individuals develop a different relationship with difficult thoughts and make room for unpleasant feelings, and learn new ways to interact with them while making values-based choices in life
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