Major depressive disorder
Sample Solution
Mental Illness Topic: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Overview:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common mental health condition characterized by excessive worry and anxiety that persists for most days over a period of at least six months. People with GAD may worry excessively about a variety of things, including health, finances, work, relationships, or everyday situations. This worry can significantly interfere with daily life, impacting work, social interactions, and overall well-being.
Full Answer Section
Symptoms:
- Excessive worry occurring most days for at least 6 months
- Difficulty controlling worry
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Easily fatigued
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
- Muscle tension
- Sleep problems (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, or restless sleep)
- Feeling irritable
- Increased urination
- Having a sense of impending danger or doom
Scenario:
Sarah is a 32-year-old accountant. She has always been a bit of a worrier, but lately, her anxiety has gotten significantly worse. She constantly worries about work deadlines, her finances, her health (even though she has regular check-ups with no problems), and her relationships with friends and family. She has trouble sleeping at night because her mind races with worries, and she often feels tired and on edge during the day. Her constant worry makes it difficult for her to concentrate at work, and she finds herself snapping at her colleagues more often. Sarah feels overwhelmed and exhausted by her anxiety, and it's impacting all aspects of her life. She realizes she needs help and decides to make an appointment with a doctor to discuss her symptoms.
Discussion Points:
- What are some of the challenges Sarah might be facing due to her GAD?
- What treatment options might be recommended for Sarah's GAD?
- How can Sarah manage her GAD symptoms on a daily basis?