Generalized Anxiety

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition characterized by excessive, persistent, and uncontrollable worry about a variety of everyday things — such as health, work, relationships, finances, or safety — even when there is little or no actual threat.

It affects both mind and body, often leaving the person feeling constantly on edge, drained, and overwhelmed by “what if” thinking.

Key Features of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

• Excessive worry that occurs most days for 6 months or more
• Worry is difficult to control and causes significant distress or impairment
• Anxiety is about many topics (not just one issue)
• The intensity of worry is often out of proportion to the actual likelihood or impact of feared events

Cognitive/Emotional:

• Constant worry about everyday situations
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling “foggy”
• Irritability
• Indecisiveness or fear of making the wrong choice
• Fear of uncertainty or “something bad happening”

 Physical:

• Muscle tension (neck, shoulders, jaw)
• Fatigue
• Restlessness or feeling “on edge”
• Trouble falling or staying asleep
• Headaches, nausea, or GI issues
• Racing heart or shortness of breath (without panic)

Common Worry Themes in GAD

• Health of self or loved ones
• Financial security
• Performance at work or school
• Being late or unprepared
• Making mistakes
• Global issues (e.g., climate, politics)
• Relationships and social interactions

People with GAD often worry about future scenarios, trying to mentally prepare for every possibility — but this mental over-planning rarely reduces anxiety and instead creates more exhaustion.