Anxiety (cont.)
Are There Complications of Treatment?
Dependency on anti-anxiety medications
(benzodiazepines) is a potential complication of treatment. Other side effects of medications include
sleepiness and sexual problems.
What Is the Outlook for People With Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Although many people with GAD cannot be cured, most people gain substantial
relief from their symptoms with treatment.
Can Generalized Anxiety Disorder Be Prevented?
Anxiety disorders cannot be prevented. However, there are some things that
you can do to control or lessen symptoms, including:
- Stop or reduce your consumption of products that contain caffeine, such as
coffee, tea, cola and chocolate.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any over-the-counter medicines
or herbal remedies. Many contain chemicals that can increase anxiety symptoms.
-
Exercise daily and eat a healthy,
balanced diet.
- Seek counseling and support after a traumatic or disturbing
experience.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Psychiatry and Psychology.
Reviewed by Amal Chakraburtty, MD, on Mar. 1, 2007
Edited on July 1, 2005
Portions of this page © The Cleveland
Clinic 2000-2005
Last Editorial Review: 3/27/2008
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