Generalized Anxiety

Often times anxiety is caused by a medical condition. "Certain medicines have side effects that can cause or make anxiety worse" (HealthWise Staff). Medications for blood pressure, thyroid, or asthma are known as only some to possibly cause anxiety symptoms. There could also be a problem with your brain chemistry. With Generalized Anxiety Disorder, some patients were found to have abnormal neurotransmitter levels in their brains which were causing the excessive anxiety. "When neurotransmitters are not working properly, the brain's internal communication network breaks down, and the brain may react in an inappropriate way in some situations" (Peter Crosta). "Overactive thyroid, COPD, abnormalities of the heart, IBS, or chronic pain can all
However, when the symptoms begin to take over and there is no energy left to interact in life, function, or even move, then it is time to seek help. These disorders are treatable. Success varies with each individual. The difficulty level depends on the severity of the disorder. People with anxiety usually have another disorder or mental illness at the same time. This could make symptoms more severe and recovery long and difficult. It is very important to get treatment for both disorders. It is possible to respond to treatment within a few weeks or months. Sometimes it can take over a year; it all really depends on the individual (ADAA Staff). Although treatment is individualized, there are certain practices that have been used of the years that have seemed effective for most patients. One well-established form of therapy is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. “It is a highly effective treatment that focuses on identifying, understanding, and changing thinking and behavioral patterns” (Treatment). Change in behavior can usually be seen in twelve to sixteen weeks (ADAA). In CBT therapy the patient is involved in his/her own recovery. They have a sense of control, and learn skills that will be useful in their life. CBT patients read about the problem. They are asked to keep records between their appointments, and complete assignments at home where they can practice their treatment
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, physical, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices” (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services). Having good mental health improves your quality of life. When free of stress and worry people are able to live their lives fuller and with a peace of mind. If mental health goes unchecked and untreated physical problems can occur. “Excessive worry and stress can lead to heart disease, ulcers, or a decrease in immune system strength” (Rhode Island Psychological Association). Treatment for Mental Health reduces medical costs. “Research studies have shown that when people receive care for their illness the numbers of medical visits they have are decreased by 90%, and overall treatment costs drop by 35%. Other studies have shown that people who go untreated visit a doctor twice as often as people who are receiving mental health care” (“Importance of Mental Health”). There is a stigma of shame when announcing a mental illness to friends or family. Most people who rely on media to be the source of their knowledge on anxiety do not realize that the media is not understanding or delicate in explaining events that involve mental illness, which are usually sensationalized