719 Peachtree Road, Ste 200 Orlando, FL 32804 | (407) 925-6759 | counseling@jenifergarrido.com

Understanding GAD-
Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Understanding GAD-
Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Would you describe yourself as a chronic worrier? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, is a chronic pattern of worry, overthinking & feeling keyed up & on edge. People with GAD experience a plethora of both cognitive & physical symptoms that make daily functioning a challenge. Sufferers tend to worry about all aspects of their life & anticipate something going wrong around every corner. Correspondingly, they experience a tremendous amount of physical symptoms & somatic health problems. Getting through each day without being interrupted by worry is a challenge, affecting their ability to concentrate, stay on task or even sleep at night.

The following are common symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder:

  • Being unable to “let go” of worries despite knowing that they are excessive or unfounded
  • Feeling restless, on edge or easily startled
  • Being frequently fatigued &/or having sleep disturbances
  • Feeling irritable
  • Having difficulty concentrating or feeling as if your mind has gone blank
  • Experiencing muscle tension throughout the body such as:
    • twitches, muscle spasms, shaky hands, difficulty swallowing
    • headaches, stomachaches, overall soreness & pain
    • elimination disorders: IBS, diarrhea, constipation

Getting Treatment

For over 20+ years, Jenifer has been specializing in treating GAD utilizing a variety of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approaches, deemed to be the treatment of choice for Anxiety Disorders

  • Cognitive Based Therapy aimed at identifying & reframing negative & irrational thoughts
  • Exposure Based Therapy -A variety of techniques aimed at encouraging clients to “face their worries & fears” both in & outside of the office setting
  • Mindfulness & Acceptance Based Approaches -shifting our focus to acceptance of what “is” & gaining a greater physical awareness of the body
  • Relaxation Practices – Progressive Relaxation, Visualization, Breathing Work

If you, or someone you care about, is struggling with any of the issues listed above, please feel free to call, email, or use the convenient “Contact Me” link located on every page to reach out to me. I speak with all potential clients on the telephone before the initial appointment, to ensure we are the right fit for one another. I look forward to the opportunity to help you begin to Live Your Life Fearlessly!