Anxiety is a natural and humane feeling. Anxiety arises when we face a situation that is not yet clear, but is perceived as a threat. The situation can be internal (eg, physical symptoms or inner conflict), or external (eg, meeting new people or new places, social conflict). Anxiety is distinguished from fear ( fear ); fear has more to do with specific things, for example: fear of snakes, fear of heights, and so on. However, both anxiety and fear can coexist and accompany each other.
Overall Anxiety Disorder or Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a type of anxiety disorder which, when the anxiety is excessive and sustainable (constantly there), interferes with daily activities.
Some of the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder include:
- Feeling excessively anxious and agitated in a wide variety of situations, almost every day.
- Difficulty concentrating and self-control
- Easily tired.
- Easily offended or angry.
- Physical symptoms such as muscle tension, cold sweats, recurrent digestive problems and palpitations.
- Sleep problems.
The above symptoms can be found in various other mental disorders, so it is important to see a Psychiatrist so you can get the right diagnosis.
A number of things can be risk factors for generalized anxiety disorder, for example:
- Family history of generalized anxiety disorder or other anxiety disorders.
- New or ongoing exposure to stressful situations.
- History of experiencing violence.
- Some physical conditions, such as thyroid and heart problems, can have similar symptoms to anxiety disorders, potentially exacerbating pre-existing anxiety.
If you consult a mental health professional, you will be offered several types of therapy, depending on the results of the evaluation. Types of therapy for generalized anxiety disorder include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or cognitive behavioral therapy is psychotherapy that aims to correct irrational thoughts that usually trigger symptoms of excessive anxiety. Replacing irrational thoughts with other, more rational thoughts is expected to relieve anxiety and improve daily behavior.
- Medications can be given to control the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, so you can carry out your daily tasks and roles better.
- Psychotherapy
Generalized anxiety disorder can also be treated through other psychotherapy, according to the evaluation results and your individual needs. In psychotherapy sessions, you will be invited to explore the roots of this excess anxiety, so that you are more familiar with the main problem and understand the next steps that need to be taken, according to each individual's unique situation. Psychotherapy can be done together with a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, or counselor who is trained to provide psychotherapy.
This is an explanation of excessive anxiety. If you or your closest relative experience symptoms of excessive anxiety, you can consult a psychiatrist (psychiatrist).
Article written by dr. Anna Elissa, Sp.KJ (Psychiatric Specialist at EMC Sentul Hospital).