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.