HELPFUL INFORMATION

What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

  • GAD is characterized by persistent, excessive worry about a variety of everyday things.

  • People with GAD often anticipate disaster, even when there is little or no reason to worry.

  • Common symptoms include:

    • Restlessness or feeling on edge

    • Fatigue

    • Difficulty concentrating

    • Irritability

    • Muscle tension

    • Sleep problems

GAD affects about 3.1% of the U.S. population each year

approx. 6.8 million adults, but only 43% receive treatment.

Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA)

What Is Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)?

  • SAD involves an intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social or performance situations.

  • It’s more than shyness—symptoms often interfere with work, school, and relationships.

  • Common signs include:

    • Avoiding eye contact

    • Fear of speaking in groups

    • Worrying for days or weeks before a social event

    • Physical symptoms like blushing, sweating, or nausea

SAD affects 7.1% of U.S. adults annually, and symptoms often begin during the teenage years.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health conditions in the U.S.

Black Americans may experience anxiety symptoms differently and are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed due to cultural stigma and lack of access to care.

Both GAD and SAD are highly treatable with therapy, coaching, lifestyle changes, support groups, and sometimes medication.

 

 

how to support your loved ones who struggle with anxiety

✅ 1. Listen Without Trying to Fix

Let them talk without jumping into solutions. Validate their feelings with phrases like:

“That sounds really difficult.”
“I’m here with you.”

Why it matters: People with anxiety often fear being misunderstood. Empathy creates safety.

✅ 2. Be Patient With Progress

Celebrate small steps like attending a gathering or speaking up in a meeting. Avoid saying things like 

“Just relax” or “It’s not a big deal.”

Why it matters: Anxiety isn’t a switch you can flip off. Progress takes time, and encouragement helps more than pressure.

✅ 3. Learn About Their Experience

Read up on GAD or SAD from trusted sources. Ask how their anxiety feels to them. 

Each person’s experience is unique.

Why it matters: Understanding what they’re facing shows that you care enough to educate yourself instead of making assumptions.

 

 

✅ 4. Support Without Enabling Avoidance

Encourage growth without forcing uncomfortable situations. Offer to accompany them to social events, but don’t push.

Why it matters: Support should stretch—not stress—them. Partnering with them rather than pushing gives them more confidence.

✅ 5. Encourage Professional Help (Without Shame)

If they’re open to it, gently suggest coaching, therapy, or support groups. Offer help finding options or even going with them to the first session.

Why it matters: Professional support is often key in managing anxiety. Your encouragement can be the nudge they need to seek help.

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