Generalized anxiety disorder

GAD affects 2 to 3 percent of the population. Although people with GAD know that the intensity, duration, or frequency of their anxiety and worry are well out of proportion to the actual likelihood or impact of the feared event, they still have difficulty controlling their emotions. Perpetual anxiety may impair concentration, memory, and decision-making ability; decrease attention span; and lead to a loss of confidence. Normal activities, such as working, socializing with friends, or maintaining intimate relationships, may become difficult or impossible.

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GAD may also produce a range of physical symptoms, including heart palpitations, sweating, headaches, and nausea. Some GAD sufferers, not realizing that GAD is a treatable illness, become accustomed to their condition and assume that it is normal to feel on edge all the time. But the constant anxiety can also lead to alcohol or drug abuse.