Anxiety disorder according to the mental illness classification manual (DSM.IV) is a disorder characterized by persistent and difficult to control “excessive worry or apprehensive expectation” that lasts for at least six months and is accompanied by three or more of the following symptoms: restlessness, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbance.
It is also important to note that in these cases, the level of anxiety is disproportionate to the events that cause the disorder, causes much suffering and interferes with the patients' quality of life and family, social and professional performance.
Generalized anxiety disorder can affect people of all ages from birth to old age. In general, women are slightly more vulnerable than men.
Symptoms may vary from one person to another. In addition to those already mentioned (restlessness, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension) there are other complaints that may be associated with generalized anxiety disorder: palpitations, shortness of breath, tachycardia, increased blood pressure, excessive sweating, headache , change in bowel habits, nausea, chest tightness, muscle aches.
Treatment includes the use of antidepressant or anxiolytic medications under medical guidance and cognitive behavioral therapy. Pharmacological treatment usually needs to be continued for six to twelve months after the onset of symptoms and should be discontinued at decreasing doses.
