What is Generalized Anxiety?

Most people worry some of the time, however, if you have Generalized Anxiety Disorder, worries and fears are so constant that they interfere with your capacity to work, play, and relax. You may worry about the same things that other people worry about: money, job, family problems. But, unlike others, your worry is unrelenting. At times, you may feel tense and anxious and won’t even know what you are worried about.

Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety include:
 Worry that disrupts your job, activities, or social life
 Uncontrollable worry
 Muscle tension, aches, soreness
 Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
 Stomach problems, nausea, and/or diarrhea
 Jumpiness or feeling unsteady
 Edginess or restlessness
 Easily tired
 Irritability
 Feelings of dread
 Inability to relax
 Problems with focus and concentration – your mind may be “going blank”
 Particular fears

​Anxiety-reducing lifestyle changes include:

• Eliminating caffeine and sugar
• Exercising
• Improving your diet
• Get help and support from family and friends 
• Get support from a professional (Specializing Therapist, Life Coach, Energy Practioner)
• Practice meditation and deep breathing exercises
• Relaxing activities (walking, listening to music, petting your dog or cat, taking a warm bath, sitting outside in good weather, going for a drive)

Generalized anxiety is often accompanied by depression, substance abuse, weight gain or loss, and physical problems. Therapy is a key component of treatment for Generalized Anxiety. Medications may be helpful but Therapy has been shown to be as effective as medication and free of adverse reactions. Changing unhealthy thinking patterns and releasing emotional and mental baggage may take time and effort, but will be well worth the improvement in your overall well-being.

Have H.O.P.E, which really means: Hold On, Pain Ends.  I have come out from the other side and have seen many of my clients come out of this as well. Take a deep breath and relax your face.  Yes, you read that right.  Relax your face.  We hold more tension there than we realize. Also remember what Bob Marley says: Everything is gonna be alright.
Where you are at, is where you are at, and that's ok.  You're learning something powerful in this experience, even though you may not feel it in this moment.  Many Hugs! Amy Francis