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Having GAD can feel a lot like how you feel before taking
a test. The difference is that after the test is over, you feel
better. With GAD, there is no test, and the feeling
doesn’t go away.
People with GAD have trouble controlling
their
chronic
worry. Their worry keeps them
from leading a regular life. They may feel
restless or grouchy. They may have trouble
sleeping. Many people with GAD also have
physical symptoms, such as stomachaches,
backaches, and headaches. People with GAD
might have panic attacks, which makes them
feel sweaty, nauseous, or shaky.
Symptoms of GAD
People with GAD tend to:
• worry a lot about everyday things
• have trouble controlling their worry
• worry about worrying too much
• have a hard time relaxing
• have a hard time concentrating
• be easily startled
• feel tired a lot but have trouble
sleeping
• have headaches, stomachaches, or
unexplained pain
• have trouble swallowing
• tremble or twitch
• feel irritable
• sweat a lot or feel light-headed
• go to the bathroom a lot
Having one or even a few of these symptoms does not mean a person definitely
has an anxiety disorder. But these symptoms could be a sign of a problem.
Did You Know?
Anxiety disorders
affect about 18 percent
of the population of the
United States.