Overview
GAD involves excessive, hard-to-control worry on most days for six months or more, with at least three of restlessness, fatigue, poor concentration, irritability, muscle tension and sleep disturbance (DSM-5-TR). Unlike panic disorder, it centres on persistent diffuse worry. The GAD-7 screens symptoms. NICE CG113 recommends stepped care: psychoeducation, low-intensity CBT, then high-intensity CBT/applied relaxation or medication.
📌 At a glance
- Korea
- 109 (suicide prevention), 1577-0199 (mental health crisis)
- US
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- UK/Ireland
- Samaritans 116 123
- Emergency
- Local emergency number
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are concerned, please consult a qualified health professional.
Frequently asked questions
- Is worrying a lot GAD?
- Only when excessive, uncontrollable and impairing for six months or more.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). DSM-5-TR.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2011, updated 2020). Generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder in adults: management (CG113).
- Spitzer, R. L., Kroenke, K., Williams, J. B. W., & Löwe, B. (2006). A brief measure for assessing generalized anxiety disorder: The GAD-7. Archives of Internal Medicine, 166(10), 1092–1097.