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Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition marked by persistent, excessive worry that is difficult to control. The worry often spans multiple areas of life (such as health, work, school, finances, or family) even when there is no immediate threat.

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GAD is not simply “being a worrier.” It reflects a nervous system stuck in a heightened state of alert, which can impact both emotional and physical well-being.

Common Symptoms of GAD

Emotional & Cognitive

  • Constant or uncontrollable worry

  • Overthinking everyday situations

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Feeling on edge or mentally exhausted

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Physical

  • Muscle tension

  • Headaches or stomach discomfort

  • Fatigue

  • Sleep difficulties

  • Restlessness

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Behavioral

  • Reassurance seeking

  • Avoidance of uncertainty

  • Difficulty relaxing

How GAD is Diagnosed

Diagnosis is made through:

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  • A comprehensive clinical interview

  • Review of symptom duration (typically 6 months or longer)

  • Screening tools

  • Ruling out medical or medication-related causes

GAD in Children vs Adults

Children may show anxiety through:

  • Reassurance seeking

  • Physical complaints

  • Irritability

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Adults often experience:

  • Chronic mental worry

  • Muscle tension

  • Burnout

Treatment Options for GAD

Therapy

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Anxiety-focused skills training

  • Mind-body regulation strategies

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Medication

  • SSRIs or SNRIs when appropriate

  • Medication decisions are individualized and collaborative

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Support Strategies

  • Sleep support

  • Stress management

  • Lifestyle adjustments

  • School or workplace accommodations when needed

What Causes GAD

GAD develops through a combination of factors, including:

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  • Brain chemistry and nervous system sensitivity

  • Genetic predisposition

  • Chronic stress or life transitions

  • Trauma or prolonged adversity

  • Learned patterns of coping

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Often, no single cause is identified.

When to Seek Help

If anxiety interferes with daily life, sleep, relationships, or work, a professional evaluation can help.

Our Approach

We focus on understanding why anxiety is showing up, not just reducing symptoms, supporting long-term regulation and resilience.

Schedule a Evaluation

If anxiety is affecting your daily life, support is available.

Important Note

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This page is for educational purposes only and does not provide a diagnosis. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

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