Mental Illness

It is characterized by chronic excessive worry, traditionally described as free-floating anxiety. The subjective experience of worry must also be accompanied by the following symptoms.

Motor tension
o Trembly, twitchy, shaky feeling
o Tense, aching, sore muscles
o Easy fatigability
Vigilance and scanning
o Keyed up on edge feeling
o Exaggerated startle response
o Difficult sleeping
o Concentration problem
o Irritability

Autonomic hyperactivity
o Shortness of breath, feeling of smothering
o Rapid pulse, palpitations
o Sweating, clammy hands
o Dry mouth
o Dizziness, lightheadedness
o Nausea, diarrhoea, other gastrointestinal distress
o Hot flushes or chills
o Frequent urination
o Trouble swallowing. Lump in throat

Individuals suffering from generalized anxiety disorder live in a relatively constant state of tension, worry and diffuse uneasiness. They are oversensitive in interpersonal relationships and frequently feel inadequate and depressed. Usually they have difficulty concentrating and making decisions, dreading to make mistake. The high level of tension they experience is often reflected in strained postural movements, overreaction to sudden or unexpected stimuli, and continual nervous movement. Commonly they complain of muscular tension, especially in the neck and upper shoulder region, chronic mild diarrhoea, frequent urination and sleep disturbances that include insomniac and nightmare. They perspire profusely and their palms are often clammy; they often show cardiovascular changes such as elevated blood pressure and increased pulse rate. They may experience breathlessness and heart palpitation.