Overview

We all worry. It's an expected part of life. But when you have generalized anxiety disorder, you worry about lots of things. You have a hard time not worrying. This worry or anxiety interferes with your relationships, work or school, and other areas of your life.

You may worry most days about things like money, health, work, or friends. That may make you feel tired, tense, or cranky. It can make it hard to think. It may get in the way of healthy sleep.

Counselling and medicine can both work to treat anxiety. They are often used together with lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Get at least 2½ hours of exercise a week. Walking is a good choice. You also may want to do other activities, such as running, swimming, cycling, or playing tennis or team sports. Choose activities that you enjoy doing.
• Learn and do relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or spiritual activities.
• Go to bed at the same time every night. Try for 8 to 10 hours of sleep a night.
• Avoid alcohol, cannabis, and illegal drugs.
• Find a therapist you connect with and with whom you can build a good relationship. Look for someone who is a good fit for you based on your goals, your culture, and the approach to counselling you are comfortable with.
• Don't isolate yourself. Let those closest to you help you. Find someone you can trust and confide in. Talk to that person.
• Know that help is available. In Alberta, you can call the Mental Health Help Line any time, day or night, at 1-877-303-2642. You can also call Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868. Kids Help Phone also has support via text and online chat.
• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Don’t stop taking them without talking to your healthcare provider. Call your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine. They may be able to offer suggestions to manage side effects, lower your dose, or change your medicine.
• Practice healthy thinking. How you think can affect how you feel and act. Ask yourself if your thoughts are helpful or unhelpful. If they are unhelpful, you can learn how to change them.
• Recognize and accept you are experiencing anxiety. When you feel anxious, say to yourself, "This is not an emergency. I feel uncomfortable, but I am not in danger. I can keep going even if I feel anxious."