The symptoms of general anxiety disorder (GAD) often develop slowly and can vary in severity from person to person. Some people experience only one or two symptoms, while others experience many more.
Anxiety can affect you physically and psychologically (mentally).
Psychological symptoms
GAD can cause a change in your behaviour and the way you think and feel about things. Psychological symptoms of GAD include:
- restlessness
- a sense of dread
- feeling constantly 'on edge'
- difficulty concentrating
- irritability
- impatience
- being easily distracted
Your symptoms may cause you to withdraw from social contact (seeing your family and friends) to avoid feelings of worry and dread. You may also find it difficult and stressful going to work and may take time off sick. These actions can make you worry even more about yourself and increase your lack of self-esteem.
Physical symptoms
The physical symptoms of GAD can include:
- dizziness
- drowsiness and tiredness
- pins and needles
- irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- muscle aches and tension
- dry mouth
- excessive sweating
- shortness of breath
- stomach ache
- nausea
- diarrhoea
- headache
- excessive thirst
- frequent urinating
- painful or missed periods
- difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia)
How anxiety can intensify
If you are anxious as a result of a phobia or because of panic disorder, you will usually know what the cause is. For example, if you have claustrophobia (a fear of enclosed spaces), you know that being confined in a small space will trigger your anxiety.
However, if you have GAD, what you are feeling anxious about may not always be clear. Not knowing what triggers your anxiety can intensify your anxiety and you may start to worry that there will be no solution.
