Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Treatment in San Diego
What is generalized anxiety disorder?
Generalized anxiety disorder involves excessive, uncontrollable worry and fear.
GAD is characterized by chronic worry or fear about everyday situations, whether they be work-related, social interactions, or health concerns. This worrying often becomes so pervasive that it is difficult to stop or control, leading to both mental and physical symptoms. The constant state of unease, along with physical manifestations such as fatigue, restlessness, and muscle tension, can severely impact an individual’s daily life. Many individuals with GAD also struggle with co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or panic disorder, making effective treatment even more essential.
According to the American Psychological Association, approximately 3.1% of adults in the U.S. experience GAD annually. Additionally, women are twice as likely as men to develop the condition.
Contact Park Mental Health now to find relief from generalized anxiety disorder through expert treatments and compassionate care.
Warning signs of generalized anxiety disorder
It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between normal worries and the persistent symptoms of GAD. However, the following signs may point to the presence of the disorder: If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to seek professional help. At Park Mental Health, our team is ready to support you on your journey toward healing and effective generalized anxiety management.
Mental symptoms
- Excessive worry
- Relentlessness
- Irrational fear
- Trouble concentrating
- Mind racing
- Overthinking
- Difficulty relaxing
- Persistent unease
- Catastrophic thinking
- Trouble sleeping
- Fear of worst-case scenarios
- Sense of impending doom
Behavioral signs of GAD
- Avoidance
- Procrastination
- Over-preparation
- Indecision
- Tense posture
- Reassurance-seeking
- Frequent check-ins
- Nail biting
- Isolation
- Difficulty focusing
- Compulsive behaviors
- Escalating stress
The types of generalized anxiety disorders
Generalized Anxiety Disorder can manifest in different forms, with varying levels of severity and different triggers. Below are some of the primary types of GAD
Chronic generalized anxiety disorder
This type involves persistent worry and anxiety lasting six months or longer. These concerns often span multiple areas of life and impact a person consistently.
Situational generalized anxiety disorder
This type of anxiety is triggered by specific situations, such as work stress, relationship issues, or financial concerns.
Comorbid generalized anxiety disorder
When GAD co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression, PTSD, or substance use disorders, the symptoms of anxiety become more complex.
Somatic-focused generalized anxiety disorder
Here, GAD symptoms primarily manifest as physical complaints, such as chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, or headaches. In these cases, physical symptoms may overshadow emotional ones.
How we treat generalized anxiety disorder
At Park Mental Health, we take a holistic, patient-centered approach to treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder. We aim to help you manage your anxiety and regain control of your life. Since everyone’s journey with anxiety is unique, we offer a variety of treatment options tailored to meet your specific needs.
Therapeutic approaches
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a proven therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and challenge the negative thought patterns fueling their anxiety. By reshaping these thought patterns, individuals can reduce their anxious reactions and develop healthier coping strategies.
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): ACT promotes mindfulness and encourages acceptance of anxious thoughts and feelings. It helps individuals take meaningful action based on their values, reducing the impact of anxiety on their daily lives.
- Relaxation and stress-reduction techniques: Our team integrates mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation to help clients reduce the physical and emotional tension caused by anxiety.
Medication management
In some cases, medication may be recommended as part of an overall treatment plan. Certain non-narcotic medications can help manage the symptoms of anxiety. Our experienced providers will tailor prescriptions to your specific needs, monitoring progress throughout the treatment process.
Supportive and comprehensive treatments
Help with generalized anxiety disorder at Park Mental Health
Your most frequently asked questions, answered.
What areas do you cover?
Park Mental Health Treatment covers the San Diego, California area. If you are unsure of whether you are near our facility, please either submit an online form or alternatively contact a member of our team today on 866-420-2524.
Do you provide outpatient care?
Yes, Park Mental Health Treatment has the facilities to cater for outpatient care. Alternatively, if you require inpatient care, we also have partnerships with facilities around the San Diego, CA area that can cater for inpatient therapies.
How do I get in contact?
To contact a member of our team, either complete an online form or call us directly on 866-420-2524.