Treatment may involve medication with a sedative (sleep-inducing) or calming effect. Other drugs, such as antihistamines, which have the favorable side effect of reducing anxiety, may be used. A common class of anti-anxiety medications, benzodiazepines, are used with caution because they can impair judgment and have a high potential for addiction.

Two kinds of therapy have been effective in treating GAD: behavioral therapy uses relaxation training (a systematic relaxation of the major muscle groups in the body) and cognitive behavioral therapy helps patients identify cognitions -- thoughts -- that contribute to anxiety.

Caffeine and other stimulants that can make anxiety worse should be reduced or eliminated.

Patient support groups may be helpful for some patients suffering from GAD. Patients have the opportunity to learn that they are not unique in experiencing excessive worry and anxiety.

Support groups are not a substitute for effective treatment, but can be a helpful addition to it.

The disorder may be long-standing and difficult to treat, but the majority of patients can expect substantial improvement with medications and/or behavioral therapy.

People with GAD may eventually develop other psychiatric disorders, such as panic disorder or clinical depresson. In addition, substance abuse or dependence may become a problem, usually because the person tries to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to alleviate their anxiety.

Call your health-care provider if you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, especially if this has been going on for a period of 6 months or longer, or it interferes with your daily functioning.