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Anxiety Disorders

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Also known as: GAD

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Key takeaways

  • GAD is ongoing, hard-to-control worry that lasts for months — and it is treatable.
  • It often brings restlessness, muscle tension, fatigue, and sleep trouble.
  • Psychiatric evaluation and medication management help most people feel steadier.
  • Seek help if worry is constant or affects sleep, work, or relationships.

What GAD feels like

Generalized anxiety disorder is ongoing, excessive worry that is hard to switch off, often about health, work, money, or family. The worry tends to last for months and can bring physical signs like muscle tension, restlessness, and tiredness. It is a recognized medical condition, not a personal flaw.

How psychiatric care helps

A psychiatric evaluation clarifies what is driving the worry and rules out other causes. Medication management can meaningfully ease symptoms over time, and we can coordinate therapy referrals when added support would help you feel more in control.

Sources: NIMH, Mayo Clinic.

Signs & symptoms

  • Worry that is hard to control most days
  • Restlessness or feeling keyed up
  • Muscle tension or frequent fatigue
  • Trouble sleeping or concentrating
  • Irritability or feeling on edge

Causes & risk factors

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), generalized anxiety disorder is one of the most common anxiety disorders and can develop at any age, often gradually.

Causes

  • A mix of genetic, biological, and environmental factors
  • Differences in how the brain regulates worry and fear
  • Ongoing stress or difficult life experiences

Risk factors

  • Family history of anxiety or depression
  • Long-term stress or trauma
  • Chronic medical illness
  • A naturally cautious or sensitive temperament

Possible complications

  • Poor sleep and ongoing fatigue
  • Depression or other anxiety conditions
  • Difficulty at work, school, or in relationships

How it's diagnosed

  • Comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
  • Validated screening tools (e.g., GAD-7)
  • Medical work-up to rule out other causes

Treatment options

ServiceWhat it's for
Medication ManagementCareful prescribing, monitoring, and adjustment of psychiatric medications to maximize benefit and minimize side effects.
Psychiatric EvaluationA thorough first assessment to understand your history and symptoms and build an accurate diagnosis and plan.

Prevention

  • Early treatment of symptoms
  • Stress management and regular routines
  • Ongoing follow-up and support

When to seek help

If symptoms persist, worsen, or interfere with daily life, a psychiatric evaluation can help. If you have thoughts of suicide, call or text988 now — free, 24/7. In an emergency, call 911.

Frequently asked questions

How is GAD different from everyday worry?

Everyday worry comes and goes. GAD is worry that lasts for months, feels hard to control, and gets in the way of sleep, focus, or daily life.

Can GAD be treated without therapy?

Yes. Psychiatric evaluation and medication management can ease GAD on their own, and we can coordinate therapy referrals when that would add helpful support.

When should I reach out for help?

If worry is constant, hard to control, or affects your sleep, work, or relationships, a psychiatric evaluation is a good next step.

Related conditions

Sources

Medically reviewed by Irine Achuamang, MSN, PMHNP-BC. Last reviewed June 30, 2026.

This page is for general information and is not a substitute for professional care. In crisis? Call or text 988.

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