GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER CAUSES |
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Generalized anxiety disorder afflicts
between 2–3% of the general population, and is slightly more common
in women than in men. It accounts for almost one-third of cases
referred to psychiatrists by general practitioners.
Generalized anxiety disorder may result from a combination of
causes. Some people are genetically predisposed to developing it.
Psychological traumas that occur during childhood, such as prolonged
separation from parents, may make people more vulnerable as well.
Stressful life events, such as a move, a major job change, the loss
of a loved one, or a divorce, can trigger or contribute to the
anxiety.
Psychologically, the person with generalized anxiety disorder may
develop a sense of dread for no apparent reason--the irrational
feeling that some nameless catastrophe is about to happen. Physical
symptoms similar to those found with panic disorder may be present,
although not as severe. They may include trembling, sweating, heart
palpitations (the feeling of the heart pounding in the chest),
nausea, and "butterflies in the stomach."
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental
Disorders, 4th edition, a person must have at least three of the
following symptoms, with some being present more days than not for
at least six months, in order to be diagnosed with generalized
anxiety disorder:
Restlessness or feeling on edge
Being easily fatigued
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Muscle tension
Sleep disturbance.
While generalized anxiety disorder is not completely debilitating,
it can compromise a person's effectiveness and quality of life. |
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| GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER RELATED ITEMS |
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