Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Treatment Sydney

Frequently Asked Questions about Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Worry

[expand title="What is the difference between Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Worry?"] The two conditions may feel similar to the person experiencing them. Psychologists usually consider worry to be one of the components of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD. Sometimes the two terms can be used interchangeably. GAD is a chronic condition that is characterized by two main characteristics: excessive worry and physical tension. [/expand] [expand title="Isn’t worry normal?"] Yes, to a point. Psychologists consider worry to be the mind’s way of reminding ourselves to be vigilant to danger. It points us toward possible negative outcomes of our past, present, or future actions. We all have periods of understandable worry, and it can often benefit us: normal worry gives us foresight to plan for future events, or take precautions to stay healthy and safe. [/expand] [expand title="When does worry become excessive?"] Worry becomes excessive when it pervades our lives, even when we know rationally that a situation or problem will most likely resolve itself. If you tend to ruminate repeatedly on past or future events, or your mind automatically turns to the worst outcome of a situation, you may be a chronic worrier. Worry is like a switch that, when working normally, turns on and off according to our circumstances. It becomes a problem when the switch is nearly always on. Excessive worry often has the opposite effect of normal worry: instead of propelling us toward action, it can paralyze us. You must opt for a proper treatment therapy to cure this disorder. Fortunately, when worry is chronic or excessive, Generalized Anxiety Disorder treatment can be extremely effective—worry is like a habit that can, with some time and assistance, be unlearned, and our Sydney-based practice has many proven treatments for GAD symptoms. [/expand] [expand title="What are the characteristics of excessive worry?"] Generally, worry is considered excessive when it is repetitive (it cycles through your mind over and over again without being resolved); when it is out of control (despite all your efforts and attempts to reason with yourself); when it is out of proportion (even the smallest things cause your mind to ruminate); or when it dominates your thinking and you are unable to relax or enjoy yourself. [/expand] [expand title="What is the relationship between Generalized Anxiety Disorder and worry?"] Generalized Anxiety Disorder is considered by psychologists to be defined by two core GAD symptoms: excessive worry as well as physical tension. Physical GAD symptoms includes muscle tension, but can also include feeling irritable or on edge, insomnia, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating. GAD and worry often feed upon each other, and this spiral can become so intense that physical tension and mental rumination become the default mode in one’s mind. [/expand] [expand title="How do I know if I have Generalized Anxiety Disorder or some other psychological condition?"] Seeing a psychologist is the best way to determine what you are suffering from. However, what matters more than your official diagnosis is: What symptoms are you experiencing, and to what degree? For instance, many GAD symptoms are similar to those of other conditions. Worrying constantly about one’s health might casually be labeled as hypochondria; worry that leads to repeatedly checking locked doors or to excessive handwashing could be OCD, or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder; worry about making even the smallest mistakes might be described as perfectionism; and worry about safety issue such as plane crashes could reach the level where it is considered a phobia. At Angus Munro Psychology in Sydney, the initial consultation can be extremely valuable in determining which of these symptoms you may be experiencing, and whether they constitute GAD or not. [/expand] [expand title="What is the cause of GAD?"] Psychologists tend to agree that many factors can contribute to GAD, including personality type, genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors both past and present. These factors are often interconnected, and it can be difficult to point to one or two definitive causes. GAD is one of the most common psychological disorders seen today, but it is treatable. At Angus Munro Psychology in Sydney, we specialise in anxiety treatments, and there are a number of Generalized Anxiety Disorder treatments that have proven to be extremely effective. [/expand] [expand title="What treatments are available for GAD and chronic worry?"] There are both long- and short-term therapies that have had excellent results. We provide such modalities as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Schema Therapy, among others. Our practice is well regarded for its cutting edge psychological treatments and its ability to combine elements from several methods according to what each client will naturally respond to. [/expand] [expand title="Should I see a psychologist for treatment?"] If you notice that your anxiety or worry prevents you from experiencing pleasure, keeps you from pursuing your interests, or is so present in your mind that you have little room for other thoughts, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a psychologist, who will be able to determine whether you could benefit from treatment. We at Angus Munro Psychology warmly welcome anyone in the Sydney area to visit us for GAD treatment. We also offer treatment therapy for social anxiety. [/expand]