Who Is Affected By Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder can affect almost anyone. Considering the occurrence of panic attacks, phobias and OCD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder is one of the most common types of anxiety disorder. During childhood or the adolescence phase, we all experience some degree of fear and anxiety. This is normal and fades out with growth. However, in some cases, the degree of anxiety and fear becomes much more intense and interferes in a child’s normal mental and emotional growth and development. When a child is subjected to a traumatic experience Generalized Anxiety Disorder may develop.
Risk Factors
Many individuals consider that the root of their Generalized Anxiety Disorder lies in the mystery of their childhood experiences. However, recent research has proven the possibility of Generalized Anxiety Disorder developing even in adulthood. There is a marked gender difference in developing such a condition. More women are diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder than men. There are certain risk factors that increase the risk of developing Generalized Anxiety Disorder in differing individuals.
Childhood Adversity
It has been observed that children, who have experienced prolonged stress and adversity, have gone through financial hardships, or have witnessed traumatic events, may develop Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Prolonged / Chronic Illness
When an individual suffers from chronic a health problem, such as cancer or any other life threatening health condition, he or she may develop Generalized Anxiety Disorder. In such case, the individual becomes worried more than usual, anticipating future events, costs involving treatment strategies, etc. He or she also experiences intense anxiety about the well being of loved ones.
Experience of Stress:
When an individual goes through extremely stressful situations, he or she may experience anxieties too. Prolonged experience of stress may lead to Generalized Anxiety Disorder. For example, if someone is suffering from cancer, he or she may become stressed out about his or her probable death. These worries may eventually trigger a bout of Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
Personality:
There are certain personality types that are more prone to develop Generalized Anxiety Disorder. People with unresolved psychological conflicts are more susceptible to this disorder. For example, problems with interpersonal relationships may bring about insecurity and anxiety. People who do not handle conflict well may be more apt to develop Generalized Anxiety Disorder. Moreover, Generalized Anxiety Disorder is common in people suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder.
Genetic Predisposition:
In recent days, much research has suggested that Generalized Anxiety Disorder can affect many individuals due to their genetic structuring. Simply because of their genetic predisposition, many individuals are at higher risk for developing Genetic Anxiety Disorder than other individuals. Generalized Anxiety Disorder may be run in families as well.
