Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterised by constant, excessive, irrational worry about things that are out of proportion with the actual situation. It is perfectly normal for people to worry about things such as family, money, work or school. People who suffer from general anxiety however, experience fear, worry and emotional disturbances for even the most minor day to day events.

People who suffer from general anxiety disorder are commonly aware that their worry is unjustifiable but they find it almost impossible to prevent or control. Sometimes they may not even know why they are feeling anxious. They often become paranoid and think in a very negative way; they expect and think the worst and some try to avoid the situations and events that make them anxious. This can lead to isolation and interfere with daily functions including social activities, relationships, school and work.

The anxiety is often so extreme that it can exhibit physical symptoms including fatigue, headaches, fidgeting, trembling, muscle aches, heart palpitations, sweating, hot flushes, dry throat and difficulty concentrating. Some of the physical symptoms of anxiety may come and go but the condition itself is long term. These symptoms must be persistent and on-going for up to half a year for a diagnosis of GAD.

The difference between GAD and a mild anxious personality

It can be very difficult to tell the difference between mild forms of anxiety and GAD. Someone who suffers from General Anxiety disorder will suffer from distress that interferes with their day to day lives. Please see Symptoms of Anxiety for details about the physical effects of anxiety.

How Common Is GAD?

Research suggests that GAD is thought to develop in 1 in 50 people at some stage during their life. About 4 million Americans suffer from GAD each year. It is more common amongst women and usually develops during your 20’s. It is least common in older people but can develop in later adulthood.

GAD and Depression

In the national Comorbidty Survey 2005, over half of the patients diagnosed with depression were found to have an anxiety disorder. Amongst these, the rate of people that were suffering with GAD was 17.2 per cent. People diagnosed with an anxiety disorder also had high rates of depression.

You do not suffer from general anxiety disorder if you feel anxious about one specific thing. For example, if your anxiety is caused by the fear of been scrutinised or judged by other people then you may be suffering from a Social Anxiety Disorder. If your fear is of one specific thing then you may have a phobia rather than a general anxiety disorder (GAD).