Featuring Dr. Lakshmi Yatham, MBBS, FRCPC, MRCPsych (UK)
,What is Anxiety Disorder?
Duration: 48 seconds
GAD is a chronic condition characterized by excessive and persistent worrying about various aspects of life, often without a specific trigger. Individuals with GAD tend to worry excessively about everyday events, future outcomes, and a wide range of situations.

One common manifestation of GAD is difficulty with sleep. Racing thoughts and worries can make it challenging for individuals to quiet their minds and fall asleep or stay asleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns. The lack of quality sleep can further contribute to feelings of fatigue and irritability during the day.

GAD can also affect social interactions and overall functioning. Constant worrying and anticipatory anxiety can make it difficult for individuals to relax and fully engage in social activities or work-related tasks. The persistent state of anxiety may lead to difficulties concentrating, making decisions, and maintaining productivity.

If you suspect that you may have symptoms of an anxiety disorder, including generalized anxiety disorder, it is essential to seek professional help. Speaking with your family physician is a good starting point, as they can assess your symptoms, provide a proper diagnosis, and guide you towards appropriate treatment options.

Treatment for generalized anxiety disorder often involves a combination of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and, in some cases, medications. Therapy can help individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and reduce anxiety symptoms. Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of GAD.

Remember, reaching out to your family physician or a mental health professional is crucial in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for generalized anxiety disorder. They can provide support, guidance, and help you navigate the path towards better mental well-being.

Generalized anxiety disorder is common and a person that’s experiencing this particular condition tends to worry about everything in life, pretty much.

So when they go to bed, they start thinking about what’s going to happen the next day and they tend to worry about everything that’s going to happen the next day. They tend to have problems with sleep. They tend to have difficulties interacting with people. It tends to affect the functioning of the person.

If you think you have any of the symptoms of an anxiety disorder, please make sure to speak with your family physician and get appropriate help.

Presenter: Dr. Lakshmi Yatham, Psychiatrist, Vancouver, BC

Local Practitioners: Psychiatrist