Generalized anxiety disorder (gad). characteristics

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a condition characterized by excessive, persistent, and uncontrollable worry and anxiety about a wide range of events or activities in everyday life, such as health, work, finances, or family relationships.

Definition and Nature of GAD

Unlike phobias, where anxiety is focused on a specific object or situation, or panic disorder, characterized by sudden attacks of intense fear, GAD involves a more diffuse and constant anxiety, a kind of "free-floating worry" that is not necessarily tied to a particular trigger.

People with GAD often describe themselves as "chronic worriers."

They anticipate disasters and fret disproportionately about everyday matters, even when there is little or no apparent reason for it.

Symptoms and Diagnostic Criteria Common

For a diagnosis of GAD, excessive worry and anxiety must be present most days for at least six months and be associated with three or more of the following symptoms (in adults; only one in children):

• Restlessness or a feeling of being "on edge" or "on edge."

• Easy fatigability (feeling tired easily).

• Difficulty concentrating or mind-numbing.

• Muscle tension.

• Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless, unsatisfying sleep).

In addition, the worry must be difficult to control and cause clinically significant distress or impairment in functioning at social, occupational, or other important life areas.

It must not be attributable to the effects of a substance or another medical condition, or better explained by another mental disorder.

Impact of GAD

GAD can have a considerable impact on quality of life.

Constant worry can be exhausting, interfere with the ability to enjoy activities, and create chronic stress that affects physical health.

People with GAD may avoid situations or postpone decisions for fear of potential negative consequences, limiting their personal and professional development.

It is a treatable disorder, and cognitive behavioral therapy, often combined with relaxation techniques and, in some cases, medication, has been shown to be effective.