Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is one of the most common reasons people seek psychiatric help. People suffering from GAD are typically lifelong “professional” worriers. They often worry about worst-case scenarios when such things are highly unlikely. They often feel tense and on edge, can have difficulty sleeping, suffer from muscle tightness and get easily fatigued and are easily irritated.

GAD also adversely effects memory and concentration. The frequent worrying occupies the brain to the point that it can be difficult for the person to focus on other things. When left untreated, GAD waxes and wanes throughout a person’s life but usually doesn’t stay dormant for too long.

Untreated GAD is associated with a higher risk of developing major depression later in life. GAD also negatively affects job and school performance as well as relationships.

Luckily, there is effective treatment available for GAD. Dr. Dansereau prefers to use treatments that are not habit forming or addictive.