Constant Anxiety: When the Mind Knows No Peace
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a condition in which anxiety becomes a constant companion in life. Imagine a person who wakes up every day with the thought: “What if something goes wrong?” And even if there are no problems in life, this person will still find a reason to worry. For example, a simple walk with a child can turn into a chain of concerns: the child might fall off the swing, the dog might run in a different direction, and what if someone starts a fight on the playground? These thoughts take over the mind and prevent the person from relaxing.
GAD symptoms often mask themselves as ordinary anxiety, and people may go a long time without realizing that the problem requires professional help. At first, anxiety may be perceived as something useful — it mobilizes, forces attention to details, and prepares for unexpected situations. “I paid the bills in advance, bought light bulbs, checked the weather forecast” — everything seems under control. But over time, it turns into an endless cycle of control from which it is difficult to break free.
The symptoms of GAD are diverse and affect both the psyche and the body. Patients often complain of stomach rumbling, cramps, and headaches. They have difficulty sleeping — falling asleep becomes an issue due to the constant flow of thoughts. Imagine what it means to fight with your own mind every night as it “feeds” you new reasons to worry.
One of the key features of GAD is avoidant behavior. Patients try to avoid situations that may trigger unpleasant emotions or unpredictable events. For example, they may fear opening their email in the morning — what if there is bad news? Or they may avoid visiting unfamiliar places for fear of meeting strangers or finding themselves in an uncomfortable situation.
The mechanism of anxiety development is simple but insidious: the more someone tries to control everything around them, the stronger their anxiety becomes. When a situation slips out of control, the level of anxiety increases, creating a vicious cycle. For example, a planned trip to an unfamiliar hotel ceases to be a joyful event and instead becomes a source of stress. “What if the food is bad? What if I can’t find my way back?” As a result, such trips are either canceled or turn into a real challenge.
Psychotherapy as a Tool in the Fight Against Anxiety
The treatment of GAD requires a comprehensive approach, and psychotherapy plays a key role in it.
- One of the effective approaches is solution-focused therapy (BSFT). This method helps the patient focus not on endless analysis of their fears, but on specific actions and strategies that can be applied here and now to overcome difficult situations. For example, a patient may work with a therapist to develop an action plan in case anxiety begins to escalate: what to do, whom to turn to for help, and how to focus on constructive tasks.
- Solution-focused hypnotherapy can also be helpful. During sessions, the patient enters a state of deep relaxation, which allows them to review their reactive behavior patterns and create new, more positive scenarios. For example, in a state of hypnosis, it is possible to simulate a situation where the patient calmly and confidently handles a previously frightening event. This helps reduce the level of anxiety during real confrontations with challenges.
The Role of Pharmacological Treatment
Pharmacotherapy includes the use of antidepressants such as escitalopram or venlafaxine, which help reduce the intensity of anxiety. Pregabalin can be used as a monotherapy drug. However, it is important to remember that the effects of antidepressants are not immediate — it usually takes 3 to 6 weeks to notice improvement. In acute cases, benzodiazepines are prescribed, but their use is limited to short periods to avoid dependence.
It is important to understand that treatment is not just about eliminating symptoms. The goal is to restore the patient’s ability to fully function in society, work, and establish family relationships. For example, a patient who previously feared taking on new professional challenges begins to take initiative and participate in new projects.
Generalized anxiety disorder is a long-term problem, but with the right approach, one can learn to manage their anxiety. Even if it does not completely disappear, it is important to learn to live with it in a way that does not interfere with enjoying life and achieving goals. This requires time and effort, but the results are worth it.
Life’s challenges — such as work-related stress, health problems, or adapting to a new country — often lead to anxiety disorders. In such moments, it’s especially important to talk to a specialist who not only understands your problem but also speaks your language.
At the Plexus center in Warsaw, you’ll find a psychiatrist who speaks Polish and Russian, who will listen to you and help you find a solution tailored to your situation. Don’t postpone taking care of your well-being.