what is the difference between generalized anxiety and panic disorder.

[gigiroj]

Is one worst than the other? thank you.

[Paxiled]

Never had GAD until after Paxil withdrawal, and I have to say, as bad as panic attacks are, GAD is even worse, at least for me.  With panic attacks, I wasn't nervous unless I had to do something I'd attached panic to, but with GAD, I'm anxious all the time and I still have panic attacks, too, so phooey.

[gigiroj]

Thank you Frue!

[frue13]

Panic disorder generally is followed or vice versa with gad.   If you live in a state of gad long enough panic is on its way.  If you have panic attacks long enough gad is soon to set in.  The best thing is to nip these henchmen in the but quickly before a set pattern of thinking and behaviors set in.  Thats why you see people on here with anxiety for 20 years.  Once the the pattern is set you will need ALOT of help to kiick the disease.

[gigiroj]

Thank you. I was diagnoised with panic disorder, but it seems that I have been feeling anxious everyday as well. As you can see I am a bit ignorant regarding my disorder( however I am trying to learn more) and I am also seeing a psychartrist( i am currently on meds), but I feel depressed because my symptoms were not this bad, and they seem to be getting progressively worst. When I was asking if one is worst than the other( and yes i am aware both are bad :( I guess I was wanting to know which is easier to overcome.

thanks

[nursegirl6572]

They are both anxiety disorders, and both mayu require treatment...depending on how much one's daily life is affected.  Both are diagnosed by a person meeting several critera, "characteristics".  

If you are worried about haviong an anxiety disorder...the BEST course of action is to ask your PCP for a referral to a psychiatrist.  They are the best professionals to properly diagnose an anxiety disorder.  Also, they would be able to recommend the best treatment regimen. While the treatments may be similar...there are some differences as well.

When it comes to an anxiety disorder, they are all bad in that none of us wishes we had them!  The good news is...they are manageable with the right treatment.

[silverberg]

Panic comes on without notice most of the time and GAD is steady, they only become bad, when they interfer with your everyday life. AND  NO THEY BOTH ARE BAD!! one is not worse then the other. look them up on the net for further info.