Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a long-term and often chronic anxiety disorder accompanied by excessive and inappropriate anxiety. Those affected often fear future events and have trouble controlling the fear.

GAD symptoms include a variety of physical and mental symptoms, including palpitations, sweating, tremors, fatigue, sleep disorders, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. Panic attacks can also occur.

ICD-10 diagnostic criteria include the presence of excessive and inappropriate anxiety lasting more than six months and interfering with daily living. In addition, at least three of the following symptoms must be present: restlessness or increased excitement, difficulty concentrating or mind pursuit, anticipation of a bad ending, muscle tension, or trouble sleeping.

The drug treatment of GAD primarily includes the prescription of antidepressants, in particular selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). These drugs can relieve symptoms of anxiety and improve mood. There are other medications such as benzodiazepines, but these should only be used short-term as they can induce dependence and tolerance.

The psychotherapeutic treatment of GAD primarily includes behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. These therapies aim to identify and change the negative thoughts and behavior patterns that perpetuate the fear. A combination of drug and psychotherapeutic treatment is often the most successful.

Mindfulness exercises and meditative processes play an important role in the treatment of GAD.

Mindfulness refers to the ability to be present in the here and now and to be aware of thoughts and feelings without evaluating or changing them. Through the practice of mindfulness, patients learn to better understand and manage their fears and worries. You learn to look at your thoughts and feelings, accept them and not let them overwhelm you.

Meditative practices such as yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, and breathing exercises can also be helpful in reducing symptoms of GAD. They help improve body awareness and focus attention on the present moment. This can help relieve anxiety and lower stress levels.

In terms of prognosis, it is important to emphasize that GAD is usually highly treatable. A significant improvement in symptoms can be achieved with a combination of drug therapy, psychotherapeutic procedures and mindfulness exercises. However, it is important that treatment is continued regularly to ensure relapse prevention.

Read more about the causes, course and treatment here.