Anxiety
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) usually involves a persistent feeling of anxiety or dread, which can interfere with daily life. It is not the same as occasionally worrying about things or experiencing anxiety due to stressful life events. People living with GAD experience frequent stress for months, if not years. There are differing degrees and types of Anxiety. To be diagnosed with GAD you must have 2 of the 6 criteria listed below: 
- Feeling restless, wound-up, or on-edge
- Being easily fatigued
- Having difficulty concentrating
- Being irritable
- Having headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches, or unexplained pains
- Difficulty controlling feelings of worry
- Sleep problems, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep
Treatment
The two main treatments for GAD are therapy and medications. Cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective form of therapy for GAD. Using EMDR treatment is becoming more common. Processing with EMDR helps the client regain control over their emotional state.
Coping Skills
- Keep physically active. Exercise is a powerful stress reducer. It can improve your mood and help you stay healthy.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs. These substances can cause or worsen anxiety.
- Quit smoking, and cut back or quit drinking caffeinated beverages. Nicotine and caffeine can worsen anxiety. Many times people feel they need a cigarette when in reality they just need to breathe. Before having that cigarette take 3 deep breaths. Do you still want a cigarette or did you just need to breathe?
- Use visualizations, music, yoga and meditation to relax and ease your mind.
- Improve your sleep hygiene
- Eat healthy foods.
Ever wonder if you are Anxious? Click HERE to find out.