About The GAD Life

The sun is about to set on a Sunday night in midwest America, and I'm lounging in the living room of my modest 2-bedroom home. My feet are propped up in the easy chair, my computer on my lap and a Cockapoo puppy napping on my legs. Even at dusk, the Summer heat outside is unbearable, but my husband and I have the air conditioner cranking. It's our first summer as a married couple, and life is good.

Or is it?

I don't have any "real" problems, at least not to a casual observer. I'm young, healthy, in love, and making enough money to live a fairly comfortable life.

But I can't relax. I don't feel like everything is OK, let alone good.

I suffer from Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

WebMD describes Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) as being characterized by excessive, exaggerated anxiety and worry about everyday life events with no obvious reasons for worry. In people with GAD, the worry is often unrealistic and out of proportion for the situation. Daily life becomes a constant state of worry, fear and dread.

It is often difficult for other people to understand your struggle. They may think it is all in your head.

In reality, it is very much a physiological problem, dealing with abnormal levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. This alters the way the brain reacts to certain situations, leading to inappropriate levels of anxiety.

I am not alone in my struggles. 6.8 million Americans could tell you that.

That is why The Gad Life is here. I will write about common anxiety issues and my experiences, and also provide advice on seeking further help. I am not a doctor nor a licensed therapist, but I have struggled - and survived - 28 years with Generalized Anxiety Disorder. I know the kinds of questions you have, and I have a lot of insight and knowledge of the disease.

Feel free to reply with your questions and your own fears. I will do my best to write a post tailored to your questions. Email me at lindsayraye@gmail.com.