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RGUHS Nat. J. Pub. Heal. Sci Vol No: 9 Issue No: 2 eISSN: 2584-0460
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1Dr. Keerti Shivaji Huddar, A M Shaikh Homoeopathic Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India.
2A M Shaikh Homoeopathic Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
*Corresponding Author:
Dr. Keerti Shivaji Huddar, A M Shaikh Homoeopathic Medical College, Belagavi, Karnataka, India., Email: kirtihuddar296@gmail.com![CC BY NC 4.0 ICON](https://journalgrid.com/images/cc-by-nc.png)
Abstract
Background: It is normal to feel anxiety, restlessness, sweating and rapid breathing. We all experience it before an exam, before starting a new task, moving to a new place, or while dealing with a difficult situation at home. This anxiety becomes a disorder when it starts interfering with our daily life. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by constant anxiety and symptoms such as tension, sweating, trembling, light-headedness, or irritability that lasts for more than six months.
Objectives: To assess the severity of generalized anxiety disorder using GAD7 scale and to analyse different presentations of GAD and the factors that predispose to GAD.
Methods: A short survey was conducted involving 120 young adults from A.M Shaikh Homoeopathic Medical College, Belagavi. This survey utilized GAD7 questionnaire, in online mode. Subjects were recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The completed questionnaires were analysed and the data were collected.
Results: Among the 120 participants included, 40%, 30%, 22.5%, 7.5% were categorized under minimal, mild, moderate and severe anxiety, respectively.
Conclusion: The survey results indicate that young adults experience varying levels of GAD which often goes unaddressed by them. Given that these issues are prevalent among the younger generation and can impact their physical, social, and mental health, it is crucial to address them promptly to ensure the well-being of future generations.
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Introduction
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a prevalent mental health condition characterized by persistent, excessive worry and distress. When young adults transition from school to college, they encounter numerous changes, including new environments, new social circles, and increased academic demands. These adjustments can be challenging, as they require adaptation and establishment of new relationships.
During this transitional period, adults may experience a range of mental and physical symptoms. Mentally, they might exhibit heightened irritability, difficulty in concentrating, mood swings, and increased aggression, which can be attributed to the stress of adapting to new surroundings and managing new relationships. Physically, individuals may experience symptoms such as frequent headaches, stomach aches, back pain, and changes in sexual development, reflecting the physiological impact of stress and anxiety.
Moreover, young adults often feel pressure to meet societal expectations, which can intensify self-consciousness and exacerbate feelings of anxiety. What might initially be mild anxiety with physical symptoms can escalate into overwhelming anxiety that becomes difficult to manage. In severe cases, untreated anxiety can lead to chronic illness or even tragic events such as suicide.
Recognizing the challenges young adults face during this transitional phase is crucial for providing timely support and intervention. By promoting mental health awareness, offering resources for stress management, and fostering a supportive environment, we can help mitigate the impact of GAD and other mental health issues on young adults, enabling them to navigate this period of growth and change more effectively. In 2017, there were 197.3 million people with mental disorders in India, comprising 14.3% of the total population of the country.1 The true prevalence of anxiety disorder is unknown as many people do not seek help of clinician to make the diagnosis. According to Indian Psychiatry Society, prevalence of GAD ranges between 3 and 6%.2 National Mental Health Survey of India shows prevalence of GAD to be 0.6%. Women are more likely affected with anxiety disorders than men.3 The present short survey was conducted among young adults aged between 18-25 years to observe for generalized anxiety disorder among them. The objectives of this study is to assess the severity of Generalized Anxiety Disorder using GAD7 scale and to analyze different presentations of GAD and the factors that predispose to GAD.
Materials and Methods
Study design: Prospective survey study
Type of research: Observational research
Sampling technique: Purposive sampling
Inclusion criteria
• Young adults in the age group of 18-26 years.
• Young adults interested to take part in the survey.
Exclusion criteria
• Subjects undergoing treatment for generalized anxiety disorder.
Duration of study
From 5th February 2023 to 17th August 2023.
Results
This observational study aimed to assess anxiety levels and identify various presentations of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) among young adults. A total of 120 responses received, predominantly from individuals aged 21-23 years, were analyzed. The male-to-female ratio was 33.3% and 66.7%, respectively. Data were collected using the GAD-7 scale.
Among the participants, the distribution of anxiety levels was as follows: 48 individuals (40%) reported minimal anxiety, 36 (30%) reported mild anxiety, 27 (22.5%) reported moderate anxiety, and 9 (7.5%) reported severe anxiety. These findings highlight the diverse range of anxiety severity experienced by young adults in the study.
Notably, a significant percentage of adults reported daily experiences of nervousness, anxiety, difficulty controlling worry, restlessness to the point of being unable to sit still (7-10%), and excessive worry about various matters, trouble relaxing, irritability, and constant fear of impending harm (13-20%).
These results underscore the complexity of anxiety experiences among young adults and emphasize the importance of tailored interventions and support strategies. Understanding these patterns can inform targeted approaches to promote mental well-being and resilience in this age group as they navigate the challenges of early adulthood.
Discussion
The survey was conducted to determine the severity of generalized anxiety disorder and to know various presentations of generalized anxiety disorder among young adults using GAD7 scale. About 120 adults from Homoeopathic Medical College participated in the survey. According to World Health Organization, depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the leading causes of illness and disability among adults. Adults fail to address mental health conditions and it affects them both physically and mentally. One of the studies conducted in United States in 2019 reported that 3.4% and 2.7% of adults experienced moderate and severe symptoms of anxiety.5 In this present survey, out of 120 participants, 36 were categorized under moderate and severe anxiety.
The findings of this study underscores the need for action in the educational institutions to integrate mental health services and support systems within their frameworks. By fostering an environment that prioritizes mental well-being, we can mitigate the impact of anxiety disorders and promote a healthier, more productive society. This study highlights the critical importance of addressing mental health issues promptly and effectively, ensuring that young adults receive the care and support they need to thrive both academically and personally.
Scope
- This was a pilot study conducted to help find the gap in research for further studies about generalized anxiety disorder among young adults.
- This survey will help other researchers as a base for continuing the research to determine the cause of generalized anxiety disorder among young adults.
Limitations
- This was a short survey study conducted to understand the level and effect of anxiety, but it did not attempt to understand the cause of anxiety.
Conclusion
The survey findings indicate that young adults experience varying levels of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), often neglecting these symptoms as common issues of their age group. This dismissive approach can have significant consequences, affecting both physical health and social well-being. Anxiety can lead to physical symptoms like headaches and fatigue, disrupt social interactions, and impair cognitive functions, impacting academic and professional performance.
Addressing these issues early is crucial to prevent longterm effects. Timely intervention and mental health support can help young adults manage their anxiety effectively, promoting better overall health and resilience. By prioritizing mental health care, we can empower young adults to lead healthier lives, contribute positively to society, and fulfil their potential.
Conflict of interest
None
Supporting File
References
- Sagar R, Dandona R, Gururaj G, Dhaliwal RS, Singh A, Ferrari A, Dua T, Ganguli A, Varghese M, Chakma JK, Kumar GA. The burden of mental disorders across the states of India: the Global Burden of Disease Study 1990-2017. Lancet Psychiatry 2020;7(2):148-61.
- Reddy YCJ, Sudhir PM, Manjula M, et al. Clinical practice guidelines for cognitive behavioural therapies in anxiety disorders and obsessive–compulsive and related disorders. Indian J Psychiatry 2020;62: S230-50.
- National Mental Health Survey of India, 2015-16 [Internet]. NIMHANS; 2016 [cited 2024 Jun 24]. Available from: https://indianmhs.nimhans.ac.in/ phase1/Docs/Summary.pdf
- National HIV Curriculum. Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) - Mental Disorders Screening - National HIV Curriculum [Internet]. Uw.edu. 2015. Available from: https://www.hiv.uw.edu/page/mentalhealth-screening/gad-7
- Terlizzi E, Villarroel M. Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder Among Adults: United States, 2019 [Internet]. www.cdc.gov. 2020. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db 378.htm