What’s the difference between General Anxiety Disorder and Panic Disorder?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder or GAD for short and Panic Disorder are both anxiety disorders with unique differences.  GAD is a state of mind characterized by excessive anxiety and uncontrolled thoughts about the events of daily life and the future. Panic disorder is characterized by panic attacks that can occur but there may be no cause at all.  Both can also occur during or immediately after a traumatic event. There is no single reason for GAD. It is believed to be the result of a complex interaction of genes and brain chemistry. It also takes into account personal factors and the environment in which the injured were raised. Painful experiences and stressful life events can motivate a person to develop GAD.

GAD symptoms are as follows:

• High levels of constant anxiety about everyday things or things that do not usually cause concern
• The inability to give up your worries even if you know they are illogical or unrealistic.
• Feeling uncomfortable, irritable or brittle.
• Focus problems.
• Sleep problems – either difficulty getting enough sleep or too much sleep.
• Be easily scared or surprised.

People with GAD may also experience the following physical symptoms:

• High levels of muscle tension.
• Regular headache and nausea.
• Low levels of energy or constant fatigue.
• Increase sweating, trembling or heart rate.

Panic disorder is defined as having frequent and regular panic attacks, Often without any obvious reason.

Panic episodes cause a sudden rush of fear and panic, while general anxiety disorder is slowly increasing and a constant sense of fear and anxiety about the present and the future.

Signs of panic attack are:

• Intense feelings of panic and tension.
• Shivering and trembling
• Sweating
• Increased heart rate.
• Breathing difficulties.
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.
• Feeling dizzy with his head.
• Pain in chest are
• Feeling unreal or separate from yourself.

Because of the terrifying nature of the panic attack and the feelings of pain in the chest area many people who have suffered for the first time believe they have a heart attack, or that their lives are at risk.

The attack can last from a few minutes to an hour, and after it is over. Some people recover quickly and do not tell others. Others may start to get it more regularly and the experience may be very frightening. They worry constantly when the next stage occurs. The symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder can be successfully reduced or controlled by many natural intervention. And not just by medication. For GAD, treatment and counseling may be helpful in understanding when your fears are unrealistic or exaggerated, as well as instilling positive ideas rather than negative ones.

Anxiety disorders can affect anyone, no matter how strong or successful. Getting treatment for anxiety does not mean recognizing weakness, but choosing it.
You can live life on your own terms, without letting those fears hinder you.

If you know someone who is suffering from anxiety, telling  them to “stop worrying” or  will not help. They often know that they are over-disposed and act irrationally. However, the fear, panic and feelings of anxiety are still very real. Do not judge, and tell them that you are there to support them without adding any additional pressure. Simply spend time with them and show that you appreciate them despite their concern.  It will have a greater impact than you imagine.

To Your Best Health!