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Dr. Bob is Robert Hsiung, MD,
bob@dr-bob.orgShown: posts 1 to 6 of 6. This is the beginning of the thread.
Posted by lynn971 on December 12, 2005, at 19:31:00
I know that a chemical imbalance causes it, but is there anything else that could cause it?
What kind of therapy is used (besides meds)?
Posted by Emily Elizabeth on December 12, 2005, at 20:54:51
In reply to What causes general anxiety disorders?, posted by lynn971 on December 12, 2005, at 19:31:00
> I know that a chemical imbalance causes it, but is there anything else that could cause it?
Actually, medical science probably can't confidently state that it is a chemical imbalance. There are theories and hypotheses, but it is not as straightforward as some diseases are. Of course that it not what the drug companies want you to think...
But anyway, back to your question. There are volumes and volumes written on this issue. Every theoretical orientation would take a different approach to the question.
Perhaps babblers could be more helpful if you said a little something about your thoughts about your past and present. Is there something that you think is contributing to your GAD?
In my own life, I understand my GAD to stem from my genetic/physical make up (e.g.,I was very sensitive to distrubances in my surroundings even as a baby, anxiety runs in my family), parenting issues (e.g., parents were not responsive to my fears, did things to make them worse), and the sudden loss of important relationships (as an adult).
>
> What kind of therapy is used (besides meds)?In good news, research suggests that CBT can be very effective for GAD. Less research has been done on psychodynamic treatments, but it seems that they too can often be helpful. I think it has helped me some.
Best,
EE
Posted by 10derHeart on December 12, 2005, at 21:36:17
In reply to Re: What causes general anxiety disorders?, posted by Emily Elizabeth on December 12, 2005, at 20:54:51
Hi Lynn,
I know you've been struggling with this so much. I've read about your med changes on the other board. Can your pdoc provide some therapy? Or refer you to someone appropriate? I'm praying for you.
This is a great web page you may like to read on GAD:
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/generalized_anxiety_disorder.htm
I just really like the layout, clear presentation, etc. It really covers most of your basic questions, and more, too
I totally agree with EE's post, too. CBT seems to be the first line of attack, so to speak. I was never dx with GAD per se, but had a LOT of anxiety all mixed up with despressive episodes. I went through both group and individual CBT (w/my now ex-T, also my pdoc - what a blessing!) about 2 years ago, and it was very helpful. I still use some techniques and new ways of looking at thoughts vs. feelings, beliefs, to this day. With time, they became second nature and I guess I'd say I can be my own "internal-therapist" with CBT.
I know it won't work for everyone, but I've cetainly read that a combo of CBT and meds can work wonders. You hang in there, lynn. It WILL get better.
Posted by Lucia Francisca on December 13, 2005, at 0:20:10
In reply to What causes general anxiety disorders?, posted by lynn971 on December 12, 2005, at 19:31:00
Hi again Lynn. I agree with Emily and 10derheart. A combination of meds and therapy have helped me a lot with anxiety and panic attacks. Lucia
> I know that a chemical imbalance causes it, but is there anything else that could cause it?
>
> What kind of therapy is used (besides meds)?
Posted by Miss Honeychurch on December 13, 2005, at 7:42:59
In reply to What causes general anxiety disorders?, posted by lynn971 on December 12, 2005, at 19:31:00
Hi Lynn,
In my case, deacdes of irrational thinking caused my GAD. CBT helps correct that thinking, but it takes WORK. It is not an overnight process, but worth every penny in my opinion. I was able to overcome without medication, but I understand a combo works well.
Posted by lynn971 on December 13, 2005, at 21:26:32
In reply to Re: What causes general anxiety disorders?, posted by Miss Honeychurch on December 13, 2005, at 7:42:59
I read the article, 10nderhear. I suppose in my case it is a combination of genetics and trauma as a child.
I am trying to find a good therapist. I have an appt. Thursday. I hope this one is good.
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