Anxiety Disorder - Generalized Anxiety Disorder Symptoms

Though treatable, anxiety can be a serious disease. It is an ailment that sucks out the energy and joy from somebody silently. A continued state of sadness or emotions different from a person's usual behavior is termed as anxiety disorder. If this behavior starts interfering with one's daily activities, it is time to consult a psychiatrist. Anger, social withdrawal, irritability, a feeling of sadness or hopelessness, fear of rejection, changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue, crying and difficulty in concentrating are some of the main symptoms. In many individuals who are suffering from prolonged anxiety, there are chances of development of suicidal tendencies. Irrespective of age, anxiety disorder can attack anybody.

Symptoms of anxiety disorder vary from person to person. Often, such symptoms go untreated because we pass them off as normal psychological and emotional changes. While some can show their disorder through anger, others can display a sad and depressed mood. The main symptoms of anxiety disorder include social withdrawal, irritability, a feeling of hopelessness or sadness, fear of rejection, changes in sleep and appetite, crying, fatigue, difficulty in concentrating. Other complaints like headaches or stomachaches also abound. Young adults often begin using alcohol or drugs while suffering from this disorder.

Although rare, people have attempted suicide as well when in such a state. Even children show varied symptoms of anxiety disorder at different times and in varied settings. Poor academic performance, no interest in sports or other hobbies, marked changed in physical appearance bring out the changed mood in children.

An anxiety disorder can be the result of any factors relating to life events, physical health, environment, family history, biochemical disturbance and genetic vulnerability. It is not a passing mood or condition that can go away without treatment. Those having a family history of anxiety disorder are definitely at greater risk of suffering from it.

If the changed behavior of a person persists for two weeks, it is necessary to see the family physician first to begin treatment. That would help to know if any physical sickness is inducing this behavior. This should be followed by a visit to a psychiatrist. The mental health professional interviews the concerned person and his or her family to understand the situation and the root cause apart from conducting psychological tests.

Treatment for anxiety disorder includes both psychotherapy or counseling and medication. The family's and friends' roles and the environment also play an important part in this treatment. Psychiatrists usually go for psychotherapy first. Antidepressants are used only if no significant change occur. For a severe case of anxiety disorder, antidepressants have to be used.

A psychiatrist prescribes antidepressants depending on the patient's symptoms. Usually, about one to three weeks pass before any improvement happens. Often, the patient's energy level or sleeping or eating patterns improve before the lifting of anxiety. The medicines are changed if no substantial changes occur after five to six weeks. However, one has to continue with the treatment for many months and sometimes, for years. For some persons, the disorder can continue to recur quite frequently and turn severe as one grows old. These people must continue with the antidepressants.

• Janny Raines
• 12/06/2009, 9:59 PM
• 0 Comments