David Baxter PhD
Late Founder
UNDERSTANDING GENERALISED ANXIETY DISORDER
WORLD FEDERATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and its related disorders have been subjected to widespread stigma and misunderstanding. Indeed, one of the most persistent and damaging myths is that GAD is not a real illness. Phrases such as ?the worried well? have too often been used to describe people experiencing these very real disorders. Even in the face of increased research and clinical knowledge, in most cultures worldwide, GAD is still unfortunately viewed as a sign of personal weakness, and those who experience it are told they should ?just pull themselves together.?
While worldwide estimates of the incidence of Generalised Anxiety Disorder are lacking, due to the use of different diagnostic criteria used in various cultures, what is certain is that mental illnesses and neurological disorders worldwide contribute significantly to the overall global burden of disease. In fact, according to the World Health Organisation, 31% of global disability, affecting rich and poor nations alike, is created by neurological disorders. GAD is a significantly impairing condition due to its high rate of comorbidity, the low rates of remission, and the significant use of healthcare resources by those seeking treatment for its symptoms.
The intent of this international mental health awareness packet is to provide accurate, evidence-based information about Generalised Anxiety Disorder ? its symptoms, its cultural differences, its treatment, and its impact on the lives of individuals who experience it and their families. Hopefully, these materials and the information provided will help to increase public understanding and awareness about GAD, and will serve to reduce the misunderstanding and stigma that often prevent people from seeking the assistance and support that is available to them. Early identification, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment, along with the positive support of families, friends, employers, and the community, combine to make recovery possible for people with a mental disorder.
WORLD FEDERATION FOR MENTAL HEALTH
Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and its related disorders have been subjected to widespread stigma and misunderstanding. Indeed, one of the most persistent and damaging myths is that GAD is not a real illness. Phrases such as ?the worried well? have too often been used to describe people experiencing these very real disorders. Even in the face of increased research and clinical knowledge, in most cultures worldwide, GAD is still unfortunately viewed as a sign of personal weakness, and those who experience it are told they should ?just pull themselves together.?
While worldwide estimates of the incidence of Generalised Anxiety Disorder are lacking, due to the use of different diagnostic criteria used in various cultures, what is certain is that mental illnesses and neurological disorders worldwide contribute significantly to the overall global burden of disease. In fact, according to the World Health Organisation, 31% of global disability, affecting rich and poor nations alike, is created by neurological disorders. GAD is a significantly impairing condition due to its high rate of comorbidity, the low rates of remission, and the significant use of healthcare resources by those seeking treatment for its symptoms.
The intent of this international mental health awareness packet is to provide accurate, evidence-based information about Generalised Anxiety Disorder ? its symptoms, its cultural differences, its treatment, and its impact on the lives of individuals who experience it and their families. Hopefully, these materials and the information provided will help to increase public understanding and awareness about GAD, and will serve to reduce the misunderstanding and stigma that often prevent people from seeking the assistance and support that is available to them. Early identification, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment, along with the positive support of families, friends, employers, and the community, combine to make recovery possible for people with a mental disorder.
