Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder - Symptoms and Management

Generalized anxiety disorder is a chronic mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, and tension about everyday situations and events.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder FAQ

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What is generalised anxiety disorder (GAD)?

The information in this section is about a specific condition called generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). GAD is a long-term condition that causes you to feel anxious about a wide range of situations and issues, rather than 1 specific event. People with GAD feel anxious most days and often struggle to remember the last time they felt relaxed.

Is anxiety a sign of generalized anxiety disorder?

It's normal to feel anxious from time to time, especially if your life is stressful. However, excessive, ongoing anxiety and worry that are difficult to control and interfere with day-to-day activities may be a sign of generalized anxiety disorder. It's possible to develop generalized anxiety disorder as a child or an adult.

Why do people with generalized anxiety disorder worry so much?

For people with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), worrying can take over their lives, becoming excessive and exaggerated. A person with GAD doesn't simply have rational worries based on actual risk—they worry regardless of outside stressors, exaggerate the perceived level of risk, and cannot rationalize away the worry.

How common is generalized anxiety disorder?

Generalized anxiety disorder is common. It affects about 3% of the adult population. Childhood anxiety occurs in about 1 in 4 children at some time between the ages of 13 years and 18 years. However, the lifetime prevalence of a severe anxiety disorder in children ages 13 to 18 is approximately 6%.

What is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive worry about every day issues that is disproportionate to any inherent risk [ NICE, 2020a; BMJ, 2021 ].

When does generalized anxiety disorder start?

People living with GAD experience frequent anxiety for months, if not years. GAD develops slowly. It often starts around age 30, although it can occur in childhood. The disorder is more common in women than in men. What are the signs and symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder?

Why do I need a GP if I have generalised anxiety disorder?

You may also find going to work difficult and stressful, and may take time off sick. These actions can make you worry even more about yourself and increase your lack of self-esteem. Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) can affect you both physically and mentally. You should see a GP if anxiety is affecting your daily life or is causing you distress.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder References

If you want to know more about Generalized Anxiety Disorder, consider exploring links below:

What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder Information

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