What is the best book you have read that has helped you with Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

[NebraskaGirl]

1) I was just wondering for those of you who have struggled with Generalized Anxiety Disorder have read any wonderful books that you have found helpful. If so, what are they?

2) When do you know that you should get on medication?

3) What medications have been helpful? What medications have NOT worked for you?

Any feedback would be appreciated.

[Sheri]

I don't think I had GAD, but I did have anxiety, depression, and panic attacks. My doctor tried Prozac for me and it made me very ill. He talked me into trying Zoloft, that is similar to Prozac, and it worked well. I also read in a book that it's more helpful to call panic attacks, anxiety moments instead. They don't seem so overwhelming then. I liked Healing Is a Choice, and When I Say No I Feel Guilty. I also read Psalms and Proverbs in the Bible.

[Cheryl]

I have been struggling with Major depressive disorder for years and years, but was diagnosed in 1995. I had to go through 6 different meds, taking app. 1 to 3 yrs before switching, before I found one that worked, but then had to add another one to it. I have come to learn that depression and anxiety go hand-in-hand. About 4 or 5 years ago, I joined an emotional support group at my church. I was very fortunate to have found it. At this group, we practice what I have come to learn is called "Cognitive Behavior Therapy".....we didn't know we were doing it, we just did it. During this process, you have to acknowledge that: 1) you have a problem with some type of emotional problem; 2) it is causing you problems in whatever situation or relationship that you have; 3) you have to admit to and discuss what behaviors you do or show in any given circumstance; 4) what are your 'triggers'?? -- how do you react to them??; 5) UNDERSTAND that you are NOT a "bad" person; 6) understand that you are NOT the only one with this problem...you are not a "freak"; 7) LEARN....as much as you can about the disorder. If you can't find a support group, think about creating your own, maybe with someone else you know who is also struggling with something. If you are concerned about other people's feelings about what you do or do not do, understand and try to accept that other people's feelings are not your responsibility.
The books that I have and have helped me immensely are:

Changes That Heal by Henry Cloud, It's Not My Fault by Henry Cloud and John Townsend, Boundaries In Marriage (which I truly think can and should be applied to EVERY relationship, not just marriage) by Cloud and Townsend and Stop Walking on Eggshells.......by by Paul T. Mason and Randi Kreger (Paperback - Jul 1998)

Another thing that really helps is to get connected with a STRONG Bible-based church. God bless you on your journey...it's not an easy road, but it's extremely worth it.

[NebraskaGirl]

Thanks so much for taking the time to write. I am in a small group, and that helps me out, so I don't feel isolated. I appreciate the feedback and advice.