Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Generalised anxiety disorder is a long-term mental health condition characterised by persistent, excessive, and often uncontrollable worry about various aspects of daily life. People with generalised anxiety disorder find themselves frequently overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, even in the absence of specific triggers. Unlike occasional worry that comes and goes with stressful situations, this condition creates a constant sense of dread, tension, and fear that interferes with work, relationships, and general wellbeing.
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time — it’s a normal human response to uncertainty or potential threat. However, when this anxiety becomes chronic and disproportionate. Affecting someone on most days for at least six months, it may be diagnosed as generalised anxiety disorder (GAD). This condition is one of the most common anxiety disorders globally and affects millions of people, including both adults and children. It often coexists with other mental health conditions, such as depression or panic disorder, making diagnosis and treatment more complex.
People with GAD often describe their anxiety as free-floating. Rather than focusing on a single issue, they worry about a wide range of topics, including finances, family, work, health, relationships, and even global events. They may wake up feeling tense or find it difficult to relax throughout the day, even when everything around them appears calm.
Living With Uncertainty
A key feature of generalised anxiety disorder is intolerance of uncertainty. Many individuals struggle with “what if” scenarios, continually imagining worst-case outcomes for even minor issues. This need for reassurance and predictability can lead to avoidance behaviours, repetitive checking, and over-preparation — all in an effort to manage or eliminate perceived threats. Unfortunately, these behaviours tend to reinforce the anxiety rather than relieve it.
How It Feels
The emotional toll of generalised anxiety disorder can be profound. People often report feeling constantly “on edge,” as if something bad is about to happen. This state of heightened alertness makes it difficult to concentrate, engage socially, or sleep well. Over time, chronic anxiety can lead to fatigue, irritability, and physical symptoms such as muscle tension, gastrointestinal problems, and headaches.
Family and friends may not always understand what someone with GAD is going through. Because the anxiety is often internalised and not based on obvious dangers, it can be mistaken for being overly sensitive, dramatic, or even irrational. This can cause individuals with GAD to withdraw or feel isolated, further compounding their distress.
Prevalence and Impact
Generalised anxiety disorder is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions in the world. In the UK alone, it is estimated that over 6% of people will experience GAD at some point in their lives, with women being more likely than men to be affected. It often begins in adolescence or early adulthood, but it can develop at any age. Without treatment, the condition may persist for years, fluctuating in intensity and occasionally being misdiagnosed as physical illness due to the wide range of symptoms.
Generalised Anxiety Disorder
While the exact cause of GAD is unknown, research suggests a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Understanding these causes is key to identifying those at risk and developing effective treatment strategies.
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