Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is when you worry excessively about everyday things, like health, money, or work, often expecting the worst. This worry can feel out of control and is usually more than what’s needed for the situation. It can lead to physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and muscle tension. Treatment for Anxiety involves evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication.
If you’re worried about your worry, you might have Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD). People with GAD often have specific beliefs about their worry, thinking it’s either ‘bad’ or ‘good’. They struggle to tolerate uncertainty and may seek reassurance repeatedly. Other signs of GAD include:
Becoming easily upset or irritable
Difficulty concentrating due to worry
Trouble relaxing
Feeling constantly alert
Having a constant stream of thoughts
Difficulty tolerating disruptions or obstacles
Feeling overwhelmed
Being perfectionistic
Around 1 in 20 Australians
will experience GAD in their
lifetime
Generalised Anxiety
Disorder is two to three
times more likely in women
than men
Generalised Anxiety
Disorder often runs in
families
People who were inhibited
or reserved as children may
be more likely to develop
GAD as adults
Let’s talk about Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD). It’s more than just feeling anxious every now and then; it’s about having constant, overwhelming worry that disrupts daily life. People with GAD often worry excessively about everyday things like health, family, work, or money. This worrying can make it hard to function normally and comes with symptoms like restlessness, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, irritability, sweating, and trembling.
Researchers have found that GAD is linked to changes in the brain, especially in the amygdala, which is responsible for processing fear and anxiety. Neurotransmitters like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) also play a role. When GABA levels are out of balance, it can lead to increased anxiety.
Now, what does the research say about the most effective treatments for GAD? The go-to psychological treatment for Anxiety and GAD is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). CBT focuses on changing the thought patterns that contribute to anxiety. The idea is that our thoughts influence our feelings, which then affect our behaviour. By working on these thought patterns, CBT can help reduce anxiety symptoms.
Medication is another key part of treating generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). Antidepressants, buspirone, and anti-anxiety medications are commonly used. Antidepressants that work on serotonin and norepinephrine are often the first choice, as they help balance neurotransmitters in the brain. These medications can be highly effective in reducing anxiety symptoms. For short-term relief, fast-acting anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed, though they’re usually not recommended for long-term use due to potential dependency.
Besides therapy and medication, other strategies can help manage GAD. These include practising relaxation techniques, reframing negative thoughts, and making lifestyle changes to reduce stress. Staying socially active and prioritising self-care are also important for managing anxiety.
Overall, while GAD can be challenging, there’s a range of effective treatments available. CBT and medications are at the forefront, backed by solid research, and combining these with lifestyle changes can provide comprehensive support for those dealing with this condition.
Regular exercise, even just a walk, helps reduce anxiety. Staying connected with friends and family provides valuable support.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists are highly qualified, with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Relaxation Techniques, to provide tailored support for individuals with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), helping them manage excessive worry, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. We also offer treatment for children with generalised anxiety disorder—click here to learn more about our approach.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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