Mental Check In

When Worrying Gets Out of Hand – Do You Suffer From GAD?

There’s nothing wrong with a healthy dose of worry. Contemplating residential security systems to keep an eye on your home while at work is reasonable.

However, if you find yourself excessively worrying about small things, and it’s starting to affect your ability to concentrate or sleep, you might be experiencing something bigger.

It could be Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

GAD is characterized by excessive worrying that you just can’t shake. You might be overly concerned with health, money, work, family, or other issues. You might even be constantly anticipating disaster.

People affected by GAD find it difficult, or even impossible, to control their worrying. They may worry more than seems warranted, or even expect the worst when there is no reason for concern.

GAD actually affects about 6.8 million adults, or just a little over 3 percent of the U.S. population.

If you feel like your worrying has gotten beyond your control, it’s important to know that you don’t have to continue living this way. There are a number of treatments that can help.

Ask your healthcare provider if therapy, cognitive behavioral treatment, mindfulness-based approaches, relaxation techniques, or medication might be effective treatments for you.

Kat Sweet

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