What Are the Symptoms of GAD?
GAD affects the way a person thinks, but the anxiety can lead to physical symptoms, as well. Symptoms of GAD can include: • Excessive, ongoing worry and tension • An unrealistic view of problems • Restlessness or a feeling of being “edgy” • Irritability • Muscle tension • Headaches • Sweating • Difficulty concentrating • Nausea • The need to go to the bathroom frequently • Tiredness • Trouble falling or staying asleep • Trembling • Being easily startled In addition, people with GAD often have other anxiety disorders (such as panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and phobias), suffer from depression, and/or abuse drugs or alcohol. What Causes GAD? The exact cause of GAD is not fully known, but a number of factors — including genetics, brain chemistry and environmental stresses — appear to contribute to its development. • Genetics: Some research suggests that family history plays a part in increasing the likelihood that a person will develop GAD. This means that the tendency t
