What if you woke up every morning feeling scared to face the day? What if you were constantly in a state of worry? What if I had spontaneous and uncontrollable panic attacks during the day? What if you wash your hands uncontrollably to the point where they bleed and crack? What if I had an anxiety disorder? Anxiety is the most common illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults over the age of 18; which represents 18% of the US population. However, 22.8% of these cases are counted as severe anxiety. There are different types of anxiety disorders. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) involves excessive worrying, nervousness, and tension. With this disorder, there is a constant feeling of fear that shapes your entire life. This type of anxiety does not have the intensity of a panic attack, but it lasts longer and makes daily life and relaxation impossible. People with GAD fear that a friendship is in jeopardy if a missed phone call to a friend is not returned. The thought of having to face the day can cause anxiety. GAD makes people worry excessively, and the worry is constant. These people feel as if their mind is engaged in a marathon of non-stop running and there is nothing they can do about it. To help treat GAD there are several self-help tips to follow. You can look at your worries in a new way and understand that worries are triggers and the blame cannot be placed on anyone else. Another useful tip is to relax. “As you strengthen your ability to relax, your nervous system will become less reactive and you will be less vulnerable to anxiety and stress. Over time, the relaxation response will become easier and easier, until it feels natural” (Smith, Segal, & Segal). Meditation,... half of the paper... or several days or even weeks, but gradually lift. But if you suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the symptoms don't go away. Don't you feel a little better every day. In fact, you may start to feel worse. (Smith).Works CitedNational Institute of Mental Health, . NP Network. November 13, 2013. Smith, M., J. Segal, and J. Segal. NP Network. 13 November 2013. .Smith, M.. Np. Network. 13 November 2013. .Smith, M.. Np. Network. 22 November 2013. .Smith, M.. Np. Network. November 22 2013. .