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Tell Me More About General Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
4. Everyone gets worried. How is GAD different?
Worry is a normal occurrence when there is uncertainty about how to cope with a possible event. Recent popular self-help books suggest some stress and anxiety helps us meet our goals. Most people that are worried or anxious, work on a solution to the problem and the anxiety subsides. Normal worry may be uncontrollable, but it is manageable if the problem that causes the worry is talked about or thought over and solved. Even if the solution is unsatisfactory, reduction in uncertainty of what to do if the event occurs, usually reduces the level of anxiety and worry.
GAD worry is uncontrollable, excessive, and may not be linked to specific events or occurrences. It may be about many aspects of life such as health, money and the safety of family members. The worry continues even though there is no evidence of any threat. Some people with GAD worry that they will lose their jobs and become destitute even though all the feedback they get is that they are doing a good job. In effect, the person exaggerates the fear and refuses to accept possible solutions. GAD worry is intense; it lasts for hours each day and cannot be turned off. It interferes in normal pleasurable activity and causes sufferers to be very distracted.
Deep Knowledge Reference
Barlow DH and Wincze J (1998) DSM IV and beyond: What is generalized anxiety disorder? Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica, 393 (suppl), 23-29.
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