Generalized Anxiety Disorders (GAD) - DRHC Dubai Psychiatry Clinic

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a chronic mental health condition characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry and anxiety about daily events or activities. The intensity, duration, or frequency of the anxiety and worry is out of proportion to the actual likelihood or impact of the anticipated event or activity. These individuals are unable to control the excessive worry and are overwhelmed by a persistent sense of unease, even when there is no apparent reason for concern.

The constant worry and anxiety can interfere with a person's ability to concentrate, make decisions, and perform daily tasks. It can also affect relationships and social functioning. They find it difficult to keep worrisome thoughts from interfering with their daily routine activities. Adults with generalized anxiety disorder often worry about every day, routine life circumstances, such as possible job responsibilities, health and finances, the health of family members, misfortune to their children, or minor matters (e.g., doing household chores or being late for appointments).

The excessive anxiety and worry are also accompanied by multiple physical symptoms, such as restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge, fatigue, muscle tension, gastric disturbances, heaviness in chest and palpitations. The other symptoms frequently seen are irritability, difficulty concentrating or mind going blank, reduced appetite and sleep disturbances.

GAD also co-occurs with other mental health disorders, such as depression, panic disorder, other anxiety disorders, and substance abuse. The course of GAD can be continuous persisting over months or even years or it may have multiple relapses and remissions. The relapses may be triggered by traumatic events or stressful situations.

Management of GAD:

Psychological Therapy

• Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used in GAD that helps individuals identify and change thought patterns and behaviours contributing to anxiety.
• Exposure Therapy is type of therapy involves gradually facing anxiety-inducing situations to reduce fear and anxiety.

Medication:

• Antidepressants – Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have shown good response in GAD.
• Anti-Anxiety Medications: Benzodiazepines and other anti-anxiety medications are helpful in managing acute symptoms.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can significantly reduce anxiety levels. Practices like meditation and deep breathing exercises can help manage anxiety over long term. Strong support system in form of family and friends can provide emotional relief during anxious times.

Coping Skills Strengthening:

This process helps in dealing with challenging problems and situations in a healthy manner. This helps in reducing anxiety and improves mental health.

It's essential for individuals experiencing symptoms of GAD to seek help from a psychiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options. Early intervention and consistent treatment can significantly improve a person's quality of life and help them manage their anxiety effectively.

If you are experiencing any signs and symptoms of a Generalized Anxiety Disorders, please don't hesitate to contact our best psychiatrist in Dubai at the Dr. Rami Hamed Center, Call +97142798200 to Schedule Your Appointment Today. We have the best psychiatry doctor, and our psychiatry clinic is situated in Dubai Healthcare City.