Anxiety

Everyone feels anxious from time to time, like when they have a deadline to meet or have to deliver a presentation. However, some people may experience anxiety that feels constant and exaggerated to the point that it interferes with his or her daily life. They may expect the worst when dealing with issues related to money, health, family, or work, even when there is no sign of trouble. About 5% of people in the U.S. will have Generalized Anxiety Disorder at some point during their lifetime. Each year, about 3% of the U.S. adult population has GAD (approximately 6.5 million Americans). Nearly twice as many women as men are affected.

Symptoms may include:

People may experience a few symptoms or may feel overwhelmed by many symptoms.

Excessive anxiety
Fear of public speaking
Fear of social situations
Anxious about meeting new people
Fear of being scrutinized
Restlessness, keyed-up, or feeling on edge
Feel overwhelmed by things
Worry that is difficult to control
Fatigue
Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
Unable to deal with every day issues
Irrational fears
Irritability
Fatigue
Muscle tension
Difficulty sleeping
Rapid heart beat
Dizziness
Physical symptoms such as clammy hands, dry mouth, sweating, nausea or diarrhea, an increased need to urinate, and trouble swallowing

Causes may include:

Stress
Family history of Anxiety
Physical pain - joints, back, headaches
Insomnia
A traumatic event
Caffeine such as coffee, colas, chocolate, etc.
Nicotine
Intake of foods that are high in sugar and fats.