General Anxiety/Panic Disorders

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by free-floating (not associated with a particular object, event, or situation) anxiety that seems to be a constant feature of daily existence. GAD can range from mild nervousness to a continuous feeling of dread. There may be somatic symptoms, muscle tension, muscle aches, or shaky feelings. GAD is frequently related to another disorder (E.g., Dysthymic, Major Depression, Panic Disorder, Social Phobia, Specific Phobia, or Substance Abuse). Irritable Bowel Syndrome and headaches may accompany GAD.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a real illness that requires attention from a qualified healthcare professional.

Given the stresses of modern life, it is normal to experience occasional anxiety. However, people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, suffer from persistent worry and tension that is much worse than the anxiety most people experience from time to time. The high level or chronic state of anxiety associated with GAD can make ordinary activities difficult or even impossible.The main symptom of GAD is an exaggerated or unfounded state of worry and anxiety, often about such matters as health, money, family, or work. Although people with GAD may realize that their anxiety is excessive or unwarranted, they are unable to simply "snap out of it"—for them, the mere thought of getting through the day can provoke anxiety.

The persistent worry characteristic of GAD is hard to control, and interferes with daily life. Many GAD sufferers seem unable to relax, and may startle easily. In addition, GAD is often accompanied by physical symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, and muscle tension.
GAD does not appear suddenly; it develops over time.

Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-IV™)

-NOT DUE TO A SUBSTANCE, GENERAL MEDICAL CONDITION, OR OTHER DISORDER.
-For at least six months the person had more days full of anxiety and apprehension then not.
-There is difficult dealing with the anxiety and apprehension.
-Have three or more of the following associated with the anxiety and apprehension:

1. Restlessness or feeling on edge.
2. Get tired easily.
3. Concentration problems and mind going blank.
4. Irritability.
5. Muscle tension.
6. Problems falling or staying asleep.

Anxiety and apprehension not associated with another disorder. (E.g., drug abuse, general medical condition, medication, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, Specific Phobia).

Panic Disorder

The main feature of Panic Disorder is unexpected and recurrent Panic Attacks. The frequency and severity of these unexpected and recurrent attacks vary widely from individual to individual. Sometimes attack occurs ever day, then sometime once ever few months. Some attacks may be long and some may be short you never know. These attacks come when they feel like it, giving the person great apprehension about the next attack.

Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-IV™)

-NOT DUE TO A SUBSTANCE, GENERAL MEDICAL CONDITION, OR OTHER DISORDER.

-Must have had unexpected and recurrent Panic Attacks along with at least one of the following:

1. Persistent concerns of having more Panic Attacks.

2. Concerns about the meaning or consequences of the Panic Attacks. (E.g., lose of control, feelings of going "crazy", or of having a heart attack)

3. Significant behavioral changes related from the Panic Attacks.

Panic Attacks can not be due to drug abuse, general medical condition, medication, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, or Specific Phobia.