Solutions For DSM 5 Generalized Anxiety Disorder

So, what are some solutions when you’re diagnosed with DSM 5 generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)? Below, I have mentioned some solutions to GAD that have worked for me. We are all unique, so they may not work for you, but you won’t know until you try.

What does DSM 5 generalized anxiety disorder mean anyway? For those who don’t know, Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a mental health disorder that is classified and defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is a widely-used manual for diagnosing and treating mental health conditions.

According to the DSM-5, a diagnosis of GAD may be made when an individual experiences excessive worry or anxiety on most days for a period of at least six months, and the anxiety is not related to specific situations or events. The worry or anxiety must also be difficult to control and interfere with daily life functioning.

“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or step back into safety.” — Abraham Maslow

GAD Symptoms DSM

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) can be a challenge to diagnose. People consider panic attacks a hallmark of all anxiety disorders, but GAD is different in that there are generally no panic attacks associated with the condition. When assessing for GAD, clinical professionals are looking for the following:

The presence of excessive anxiety and worry about a variety of topics, events, or activities. Worry occurs more often than not for at least six months and is clearly excessive.
The worry is experienced as very challenging to control. The worry in both adults and children may easily shift from one topic to another.
The anxiety and worry are accompanied by at least three of the following physical or cognitive symptoms (In children, only one of these symptoms is necessary for a diagnosis of GAD):
Edginess or restlessness
Tiring easily; more fatigued than usual
Impaired concentration or feeling as though the mind goes blank
Irritability (which may or may not be observable to others)
Increased muscle aches or soreness
Difficulty sleeping (due to trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, restlessness at night, or unsatisfying sleep)

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” ― Eleanor Roosevelt

Gad Support Groups

 ADAA Org Generalized Anxiety Disorder

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), is a non-profit organization that aims to promote the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety and depressive disorders. They provide resources and support to individuals, mental health professionals, and researchers in the field of mental health.

The ADAA provides information on the symptoms, causes, and treatment of GAD on their website. This information includes self-assessment quizzes, resources for finding a mental health professional, and educational materials for individuals, families, and caregivers.

Additionally, the ADAA offers support groups, webinars, and other resources for individuals living with anxiety disorders, including GAD. These resources aim to help individuals cope with anxiety, manage symptoms, and improve their overall mental health and well-being.

https://adaa.org/supportgroups

A quick look at the best anxiety support groups:

Best overall: Support Groups Central
Best online discussion forum: Anxiety and Depression Association of America https://adaa.org/
Best for unlimited access: Mental Health America https://mhanational.org/
Best app: 7 Cups https://www.7cups.com/
Best for joining multiple groups: SupportGroups.com https://supportgroups.com/

“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift of God, which is why we call it the present.” ― Bill Keane

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a highly effective therapeutic approach for treating anxiety and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy for worry and generalized anxiety disorder focuses on identifying and challenging the negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to anxiety. Through structured sessions with a trained therapist, individuals learn to recognize their irrational or unhelpful beliefs, reframe them, and develop more rational and constructive ways of thinking.

Additionally, CBT equips individuals with practical coping strategies and relaxation techniques to manage anxiety symptoms in real-life situations. By addressing the root causes of anxiety and providing tools for managing it, CBT empowers individuals to gain greater control over their anxiety and lead more fulfilling, anxiety-free lives.

“Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it’s better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.” ― Marilyn Monroe

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Psychotherapy

I have found that psychotherapy has helped me quite a bit for my anxiety. I like the one on one approach. Besides, I’m not good with groups. Hence, I tend to not participate even when I’m surrounded by like-minded people. I guess I still have some shyness left over from my early years of growing up. That is, I let a lot of things go because of it (not speaking my mind).

I have come a long way with psychotherapy. Although, I’m not seeing a therapist at this time because I can’t afford it (I don’t have insurance any more). I do miss it, though. I kind of consider these posts as my therapy sessions where I’m free to talk about almost everything. Hopefully, these posts have helped at least one individual out there. That’s all I ask!

“What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you.” ― Ralph Waldo Emerson, “Essays and Addresses”

Conclusion

Overcoming Generalized Anxiety Disorder can be achieved. You just have to use all your tools in your toolbox to the best of your ability. Some days are going to be worse than others, but it is possible to subdue the anxiety. Although, last night I had a really bad panic attack that put me out of commission for a while. I’m mentioning this because I haven’t overcome anxiety, but I am learning to coexist with it. Therefore, I have learned not to let it overpower me like it used to.

To conclude, I hope you learn (or overcome) your GAD and live a more peaceful life. I try to be as relatable as possible, not really holding anything back. I mean, as a result I, there are some things I can’t say because I’m posting these on Facebook and they could end it just like that. Given that, I hope I’m an inspiration (or just a little helpful) to someone who deals constantly with GAD. I bid you farewell! Until next time…

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