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Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by persistent and excessive worry. If you worry a lot about a variety of things and can’t seem to stop, you may be suffering from generalized anxiety disorder. GAD affects about 3 out of 100 people in the U.S. in any given year. Most people worry occasionally, but people with GAD worry excessively for at least six months or more. Common worries include health, money, jobs or family matters.
GAD may be caused by a variety of factors. Evidence suggests that the following play a role in causing GAD:
GAD often occurs in conjunction with other mental health conditions such as depression and phobias. Women are twice as likely to be affected. Although this type of anxiety disorder can begin at any age and may develop gradually, the risk is highest between childhood and middle age.
Symptoms of GAD are often experienced when feeling stressed with a combination of emotional, behavioral and physical symptoms. Signs and symptoms include:
While panic attacks are not a sign of GAD, it’s important to not dismiss the negative effects of a constant worry. Talk to your doctor if the following statements are true:
Don’t dismiss the harmful effects of constant worry. Discuss your symptoms with a Mercy behavioral health provider who will develop a treatment plan to help you along the path to healing.
If you're experiencing signs of generalized anxiety disorder, it can be overwhelming. Mercy's behavioral health experts are here to help.
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