Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Whole-Person Education for Healthier Minds & Healthier Bodies

Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common anxiety disorder that causes excessive, persistent worry about everyday life. The worry is difficult to control, lasts for months, and can interfere with work, school, relationships, sleep, and overall quality of life.

DSM-5 Criteria

Providers diagnose GAD when excessive worry occurs more days than not for at least six months, involves several areas of life, is difficult to control, and causes distress or impaired functioning. Adults generally have three or more of these symptoms (children need one):

·         Restlessness or feeling on edge

·         Becoming tired easily

·         Difficulty concentrating

·         Irritability

·         Muscle tension

·         Sleep problems

Common Signs & Symptoms

·         Constant worrying

·         Overthinking

·         Difficulty relaxing

·         Feeling overwhelmed

·         Headaches or muscle aches

·         Upset stomach

·         Rapid heartbeat

·         Avoiding situations because of worry

·         Seeking reassurance

How GAD May Present Differently

Children & Teens

·         School or performance worries

·         Perfectionism

·         Frequent stomachaches

·         Trouble sleeping

Women

·         Diagnosed more often in women

·         Hormonal changes may influence symptoms

·         Often report emotional and physical symptoms

Men

·         May appear irritable or withdrawn

·         May overwork to cope

·         Some use alcohol or substances

Common Medication Classifications

·         SSRIs

·         SNRIs

·         Buspirone

·         Short-term anti-anxiety medications in select situations

·         Other medications when appropriate

Common Therapies & Why They Help

·         CBT: Changes unhealthy thinking patterns.

·         ACT: Builds flexibility and resilience.

·         Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Reduces overthinking.

·         Supportive Therapy: Builds coping skills.

·         Stress management and relaxation training.

Combining therapy, healthy lifestyle habits, and medication when appropriate often provides the best outcomes.

Healthy Coping Tips

·         Exercise regularly

·         Maintain healthy sleep habits

·         Limit caffeine if it worsens anxiety

·         Practice breathing or mindfulness

·         Break tasks into smaller steps

·         Reach out for support

When Should You Seek Help?

Seek professional help if worry affects work, relationships, school, sleep, or your quality of life.

Call 911 or 988 immediately if you are having thoughts of self-harm or are experiencing a mental health crisis.

Ready to Find Peace of Mind?

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This handout is for educational general awareness purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace an evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.