A question for people with GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder)?

I asked a similar question a few days ago, but never got a good answer... for people who have GAD, what are your symptoms, physically/mentally? I'm sure that I have GAD, but haven't been to the Doc yet. I've told my mom about it, and she said when I go to get my shots that she would tell the doctor about it, but I just want to know if I have similar symptoms to people that actually have it.

I am constantly worrying, usually it's something about my health. When I'm not worrying, I can't stop. I try to distract myself, but it doesn't work. If I'm not worrying, I know that it's only temporary. Sometimes I get nauseous, my heart races, I start shaking, etc. I use the bathroom constantly, even when I don't have to go. I feel tense alot of the time, and I'm always tired.

I've tried different things in the past to help. Like praying, writing down my worries, taking deep breaths. It helps a little, but not much. Does it sound like I have it?

I have all of those symptoms, except twitching and headaches. I'm not sure about hot flashes. My hands get really sweaty sometimes, and my cheeks feel hot. Like I have fever. But, I'm not sure if that's what one would call a hot flash...

The symptoms you describe are very characteristic of GAD. As someone who has GAD *and* works in in-patient Psych, I'd encourage you to go to your GP (regular doc) with your symptoms and concerns. Explain to them *just* what you have written here (in your question). They will likely give you a short anxiety 'inventory' and may prescribe medication. If nothing else, ask for a referral to a Psychiatrist (a medical doctor that specializes in mental health) for help with your anxiety.

Personally, if you're looking for medication to help with your condition, I'd recommend EFFEXOR! I've been taking it for a while and it works *wonders* not only for GAD, but also Social Anxiety, Panic and Mild-Moderate Depression. It has very few (if any) side-effects and is easy to stop (if need-be).

For more info:

GAD is usually characterized by chronic anxiety, exaggerated worry and tension, even when there is little or nothing to provoke it. This excessive worry often interferes with daily functioning.

Physical symptoms include: fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, muscle aches, difficulty swallowing, trembling, twitching, irritability, sweating, and hot flashes.

[note: you do not have to have ALL of these symptoms to be diagnosed with GAD... this is simply a list of symptoms that are common to most GAD patients... you may only have a few of these, but still have GAD.]

Definitely talk to your doctor about it, although some doctors might dismiss your worries - if so, you might need a new doctor.

Try WebMD.com to find out more about GAD.

Yes, it does. Of course though, I am not a mental health professional, so my opinion doesn't mean much. I have GAD amongst a few other issues, and I have very similiar symptoms. One of the most annoying ones is that I constantly feel like I have a lump in my throat and / or butterflies in my stomach for no apparent reason.

Having anxiety seriously sucks, but it is a manageable issue if you get health. I would recommend going one step further then talking to your general doctor, and instead seeing a psychologist and/or psychiatrist.

It sounds like you may have GAD with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Many people who have GAD suffer with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, stomach problems, headaches, etc.
It also sounds like you may be experiencing panic attacks, which is not uncommon with GAD.
Sometimes anxiety & depression run in families, & it is bio-chemical in nature.
I don't know how old you are, but when you visit your physician, ask about Effexor.
Relaxation techniques, visual imagery, self-hypnosis etc. can all help to alleviate some of the symptoms, but if you are a full-blown case, meds may be the only answer & they do work.
Good Luck.
Phyllis G.

Maybe, and so do a lot of us out here. I use to have the same symptoms the nausea, heart beating rapidly, headaches, tenseness, tired , etc (mostly associated with the "stress" of college) ... but I refused to go to the doctor and get some kind of prescription medications.

I did some self discovery and a lot of research, read some books and found out that this mental "disorder" is just that disorder-not diesase. That being said you can get past it without turning into a clinical case. You seem really young, so I suggest you do some research and talk with your loved ones.

You probably need to change your diet, I did that and the symptoms started to subside, I eat more vegetables and fresh fruits, stay away from greasy food and take vitamins and excersice more. I felt a big difference! So that can help with the physical. As for the mental aspect, I realized i was stressed and nervous about a million little things that NEVER happened. it is the worrying that gets you.

Keep writing down your worries its good therapy- that way when you look back months or even weeks later you will see that maybe it wasn't worth worrying about.

the following books helped me put things in perspective and get over the bulk of my worry/anxiety

"How to stop worrying and start living" by Dale Carnegie
"I know why the caged bird sings" by Maya Angelou
"Quarterlife Crisis" by Abby Miller and Alexandra Robbins


I hope things look up for you.

p.s. i advocate against using prescription meds to treat anxiety! i use lavender oil it has a very calming effect also jazmine.