What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) characterized by six months or more of excessive worry and anxiety about ordinary activities such as work, health, school, finances, or daily activities. Individuals with GAD often find that it is difficult to control their worrying and often expect the worst to occur. Furthermore, they may great difficulty relaxing. They may feel tense all the time and as a result have difficulty enjoying life. The worry may get in the way of being able to sleep or complete daily activities.

Associated Symptoms

Excessive worry and anxiety
Difficulties controlling worry and anxiety
Feeling restless or on edge
Easily tired
Difficulties concentrating
Irritability
Muscle tension
Sleep difficulties

What is the impact of GAD?

• It is associated with divorce and unemployment
• It is associated with decreased work productivity
• In women, it has been associated with marriages being perceived as less satisfying
• It is associated with moderate impairment in social and leisure activities
• It is associated with high rates of utilization of medical care
• It is associated with self-reports of having a very low quality of life

How common is GAD?

There is a 5% lifetime prevalence rate of GAD in the population.
It is also a common problem among older adults.