While it’s natural to feel anxious about an upcoming test or worried about finances after an unexpected expense, these feelings should be fleeting. If, however, your worries become excessive, persistent and start to negatively influence daily work or social activities, you’ve probably got generalised anxiety disorder (GAD).

This common anxiety disorder involves constant and chronic worrying, nervousness, and tension. While not everyone has the same symptoms, most people experience a combination of emotional, behavioural, and physical symptoms that often change, becoming worse at times of stress.

1.Emotional symptoms include:

• Constant worries running through your head.
• Feeling like your anxiety is uncontrollable; there is nothing you can do to stop the worrying.
• Intrusive thoughts about things that make you anxious; you try to avoid thinking about them, but you can’t.
• An inability to tolerate uncertainty; you need to know what’s going to happen in the future.
• A pervasive feeling of apprehension or dread.

2. Behavioural symptoms include:

1. Not being able to relax, enjoy quiet time, or be by yourself.
2. Difficulty concentrating or focusing on things.
3. Putting things off because you feel overwhelmed.
4. Avoiding situations that make you anxious.

3. Physical symptoms include:

1. Feeling tense; having muscle tightness or body aches.
2. Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep because your mind won’t quit.
3. Feeling edgy, restless, or jumpy.
4. Stomach problems, nausea, diarrhoea.

If these symptoms sound familiar, speak to your doctor for help.

Content by Platinum Health.

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