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Generalized anxiety disorder

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment

Alternative Names:

GAD; Anxiety disorder

Treatment:

Treatment may involve specific medications that provide a sedative (sleep-inducing) or calming effect. Several antidepressant medicines are approved for generalized anxiety disorder.

Other drugs such as antihistamines, which have the favorable side effect of reducing anxiety, may be used. Benzodiazepines, a common class of anti-anxiety medications, are used with caution because they can cause judgment problems and can be addictive.

Two types of therapy are used to treat GAD:

• Relaxation training -- a systematic relaxation of the major muscle groups in the body
• Cognitive behavioral therapy -- helps patients identify thoughts that contribute to anxiety

Caffeine and other stimulants that can make anxiety worse should be reduced or eliminated.

Support Groups:

Patient support groups may be helpful for some patients suffering from GAD. Patients have the opportunity to learn that they are not unique in experiencing excessive worry and anxiety.

Support groups are not a substitute for effective treatment, but can be a helpful addition to it.

Expectations (prognosis):

The disorder may be long-standing and difficult to treat, but the majority of patients can expect substantial improvement with medications and/or behavioral therapy.

Complications:

People with GAD may eventually develop other psychiatric disorders, such as panic disorder or clinical depression. In addition, substance abuse or dependence may become a problem, usually because the person tries to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to alleviate their anxiety.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health-care provider if you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, especially if this has been going on for a period of 6 months or longer, or it interferes with your daily functioning.

References:

Moore DP, Jefferson JW. Handbook of Medical Psychiatry . 2nd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004: 174-175.

Noble J. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine . 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:416.

• Review Date: 5/8/2006
• Reviewed By: Paul Ballas, D.O., Department of Psychiatry, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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