Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Fast Facts: Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- As many as 4 million Americans may experience Generalized Anxiety Disorders (GAD) during any given year.
- GAD usually strikes early in a person's life, although it can begin in adulthood.
- More women suffer from GAD than men.
What is it?
Everyone has certain fears and anxieties, which are natural and protect us from harm.Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), however, is a behavior that is characterized by 6 ormore months of persistent and unreasonable worry and needless fear. This anxiety is agreat deal more acute than the fears and apprehensions felt by a normal individual.
What causes it?
GAD appears to be at least partially transmitted genetically in families, although stressmay also be a cause. It normally begins earlier in life although symptoms may not be asobvious until the child is older.
How do you know when someone has it?
They expect the worst to occur most of the time. Strong anxieties are presenteven in good times on issues like their occupation, relationships, finances, orpersonal health. They may be frequently uptight and have difficulty sleeping.Some physical manifestations of GAD may include:
- Constantly tired
- Headaches
- Trembling
- Tense
- Irritable
How do you help a loved one suffering from GAD?
Even severe anxiety problems can be successfully treated, particularly when diagnosedearly. Therapy and other behavioral treatments generally accompany medication andeducation in helping the individual become productive and happy. In the absence oftreatment, future problems such as lost opportunities, failed relationships, and poorself-esteem may characterize an individual's life.
How CERTS helps those with GAD
CERTS therapists are usually successful in treating individuals with GAD. This success isa byproduct of the CERTS formula of balancing outstanding clinical therapy, experientialtherapy, and education, along with appropriate medical care.
Experiential therapy programs (such as equine therapy) offered at the facilities have alsoproven helpful. A fun and challenging academic education enhances self-esteem and encouragesstudents to rediscover the joy of learning while they clinically stabilize. To learn moreabout which CERTS program can best offer the help you may require, please contact a CERTSadmissions counselor at 888-406-5968.
Learn More About GAD
American Psychiatric Association
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
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