Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry about everyday events. It primarily affects the nervous system, especially brain areas involved in emotion regulation. People with GAD often experience physical symptoms such as muscle tension, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. This ongoing anxiety can interfere with daily activities, work, and relationships. The condition involves a heightened state of arousal and difficulty controlling anxious thoughts. It is not caused by a specific external threat but rather a chronic state of worry that is hard to manage.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is defined as a chronic psychiatric disorder characterized by excessive, uncontrollable anxiety and worry about multiple events or activities for at least six months. The core pathology involves dysregulation of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex circuits, leading to heightened fear response and impaired anxiety modulation. Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly involving gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and serotonin, contribute to symptom development. GAD is associated with significant functional impairment and increased risk of comorbid conditions such as depression. The disorder is distinguished by its pervasive and persistent nature, unlike situational anxiety. It is a major cause of disability worldwide and often requires long-term management.