• The Symptoms of Anxiety :
    *  Unrealistic or excessive worry or fears
    *  Exaggerated startle reactions
    *  Sleep disturbances
    *  Ritualistic behaviors (i.e. excessive hand washing, counting things)
    *  Shakiness and trembling
    *  Racing or pounding heart
    *  High pulse and/or breathing rate
    *  Muscle aches and/or tension
  
  
• GAD affects about 4 million adult Americans; about twice as many women as men
  
  
• The disorder comes on gradually and can begin across the life cycle, though the risk is highest between childhood and middle age
   
  
• It is diagnosed when someone spends at least 6 months worrying excessively about a number of everyday problems. There is evidence that genes play a modest role
  
  
• GAD is commonly treated with psychotherapy and medication  
  
  
• GAD rarely occurs alone, however; it is usually accompanied by another anxiety disorder, depression, or substance abuse

 Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, panic disorders,  post-traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorders  

Mental Health Information