Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder where a person worries about several areas of life. This usually interferes with life quite a bit: people with GAD typically worry about money, relationships, work, and death. Physical symptoms include restlessness, trouble concentrating, irritability, insomnia, fatigue, and muscle tension. This may sound like a lot of us but a person must have these symptoms for more than six months for an official diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder.
We can all get a little awkward and shy now and then. Social phobia is when a person has a specific anxiety about some or all social situations. Officially called social anxiety disorder, it is the most common kind of anxiety that people experience. Symptoms of social phobia are similar to GAD but occur in anticipation of social scenarios. It can also include sweating, nausea, palpitations, and may lead to panic attacks in some cases.
Whether you think you’ve had one or actually have, panic disorder or frequent panic attacks can severely limit your life. People who are having a panic attack for the first time often think they’re dying or losing their mind. A panic attack can feel like a heart attack: palpitations and rapid heart rate, along with shortness of breath and chest pain all mimic a heart attack. Panic attacks are more common in people who have other anxiety disorders, and may be a symptom of a physiological disturbance.
Herbal medicine isn’t the only tool: there is a strong connection between the brain and the gut. A proper diet assessment that identifies deficiencies, removes allergenic foods, and supports proper bacterial balance that can make a world of difference for your anxiety. Acupuncture is an excellent way to help you relax and manage stress too.