Title Text

Generalized Anxiety Disorder
and
Anxiety In General

What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Excessive, Uncontrollable and often Irrational Worry
Anticipating Disaster
Overly Concerned About Everyday Matters

Anxiety v. Panic

Panic: generally triggered by something specific
Anxiety: Usually don't require a specific trigger

Caveat Emptor

I am neither a medical or psychiatric professional.

Cool Symptoms!

Even More Symptoms!

Flight or Fight (or Freeze)

Comorbidity

Anxiety Disorders & Major Depressive Disorder
Alcohol/Substance Abuse Disorder & GAD
ADHD & GAD
GAD & Stress-related health issues

Globally about 4% of people will experience GAD in their lifetime.

For some folks, it can be managed to the point of being symptom-free. For others, it is a chronic condition.

Most common cause of workplace disability in the US.

Managing Anxiety in Yourself

and

Supporting others who have Anxiety

Avoiding Anxiety

Limit alcohol and caffeine
Do your best
Accept imperfection
Get enough sleep
Take a timeout
Know your triggers
Find humor & positivity

Coping With Anxiety

Breathing exercises
Mindfulness
Change of scenery
What works for you

Diet & Anxiety

Omega-3 fatty acids
Zinc, Magnesium, Folate
Limit simple carbs and sugars

Star Breathing

Spoons!

A metaphor often used by the chronic illness/disability/mental health community to describe the physical/mental energy required to get through a day. (and pass as 'not ill')

Tips and Tricks

Don't Be a Jerk

Don't assume you know anything about their condition or treatment plan
Don't tell them to get over it
Don't minimize their experience

Do be a cool person

Ask them to explain if they feel comfortable
Ask them what you can do to help
Provide a distraction (if helpful)