Generalized Anxiety

Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, is a mental health condition where someone feels excessive, ongoing worry about lots of everyday things — like health, work, relationships, money, or safety — even when there’s little or no real danger.

GAD affects both the mind and body, leaving people feeling constantly on edge, tired, and overwhelmed by “what if” thoughts that just won’t stop.

Key Features of GAD:

Worrying a lot, most days, for six months or longer
Finding it hard to control the worry, which causes distress or gets in the way of daily life
Worrying about many different things, not just one problem
Feeling like the worry is way bigger than the actual chance or impact of the feared events

How GAD Feels Emotionally and Mentally:

Constant worry about everyday situations
Trouble concentrating or feeling mentally “foggy”
Feeling irritable
Having a hard time making decisions or fearing you’ll make the wrong choice
Fear of uncertainty or that something bad will happen

Physical Symptoms of GAD:

Muscle tension in the neck, shoulders, or jaw
Feeling tired or worn out
Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
Headaches, stomach problems, or nausea
Racing heart or shortness of breath (not related to panic attacks)

Common Things People Worry About With GAD:

Health of themselves or loved ones
Money or financial security
Doing well at work or school
Being late or unprepared
Making mistakes
Big global problems like climate change or politics
Relationships and social situations

Why Does This Happen?

People with GAD often try to prepare for every possible outcome by worrying about future scenarios. But this “mental over-planning” usually doesn’t ease anxiety—it just makes people feel more drained and overwhelmed.