Overview
GAD is persistent, excessive worry about many everyday things that is hard to control and out of proportion to the situation. The worry is present most days for months and is often accompanied by physical tension and restlessness. It is common and improves with support.
Symptoms
- Excessive, hard-to-control worry on most days
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Muscle tension, headaches or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
- Irritability
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
Causes & risk factors
- Genetic predisposition and family history
- Prolonged stress or difficult life circumstances
- Differences in brain chemistry
- Personality traits and early-life experiences
Treatment & self-care
Care often combines talking therapy with self-management techniques and, in some cases, medication prescribed by a clinician. A GP, psychiatrist or psychologist assesses severity and recommends the right level of support.
See a doctor urgently if
- Worry is constant and interferes with daily life for weeks or more
- You have physical symptoms like persistent tension or poor sleep
- Anxiety leads to avoiding work, social or family activities
- You feel hopeless or have thoughts of self-harm