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Generalized anxiety disorder - Treatment

Alternative Names

GAD; Anxiety disorder

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to help the person function well. The success of treatment usually depends on the severity of the generalized anxiety disorder.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medications are the mainstays of treatment.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are usually the first choice in medications. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are another choice. Other antidepressants and some antiseizure drugs may be used for severe cases.

Other anti-anxiety medications may also be prescribed. Benzodiazepines may be recommended if antidepressants don't help.

Behavioral therapies that may be used with drug therapy include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy to change distorted and possibly harmful perceptions of severe anxiety
  • Pleasant mental imagery
  • Relaxation techniques

Other counseling and therapy techniques may help people gain an understanding of the illness and the factors that protect against or trigger it.

A healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, enough rest, and good nutrition can help reduce the impact of anxiety.

Support Groups:

Support groups may be helpful for some patients with 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 continue and be difficult to treat, but most patients see great improvement with medications or behavioral therapy.

Complications:

People with GAD may develop other psychiatric disorders, such as panic disorder or depression. Substance abuse or dependence may become a problem if you try to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to relieve anxiety.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if:

  • You are experiencing the signs and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder
  • You have been experiencing symptoms for 6 months or longer
  • Your symptoms interfere with your daily functioning
  • Reviewed last on: 1/15/2009
  • Christos Ballas, MD, Attending Psychiatrist, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Ebell MH. Diagnosis of anxiety disorders in primary care. Am Fam Physician. 2008;78:501-502.

Gale C, Davidson O. Generalised anxiety disorder. BMJ. 2007;334:579-581.

Schneier FR. Clinical practice: social anxiety disorder. New Engl J Med. 2006;355:1029-1036.

Katon WJ. Clinical practice: panic disorder. New Engl J Med. 2006;354:2360-2367.

Connolly SD, Bernstein GA, Work Group on Quality Issues. Practice parameter for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with anxiety disorders. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2007;46:267-283.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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