It is an excessive worry about things that are unlikely to happen, or, if they were to happen, it would be much more unmanageable than worriers think. Examples include worrying about the health of one’s family, worrying about not getting everything done on time at work or home, and worrying about not being good enough as a parent, child, or significant other.
Worry is almost always about events that could happen in the future, and therefore, it is characterized by “What if” types of statements.
Such worries can continue throughout the day, in some cases every day, disrupting social activities, family, work or school.
Physical symptoms of GAD include, but are not limited to the following:
- Muscle tension
- Gastrointestinal discomfort or diarrhea
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Edginess
- Restlessness
- Sleep difficulties
