Generalised Anxiety
Disorder (GAD)

What Is Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common condition where individuals experience excessive, ongoing worry about everyday situations. Unlike day to day stress, GAD causes anxiety that is persistent, difficult to control, and often occurs without a specific trigger.

People with GAD may worry about:

• Health

• Finances

• Work or school performance

• Relationships

• Future events

The worry can go from subject to subject and feel overwhelming.  Someone with GAD will find themselves asking lots of 'what if' questions, often leading to chains of worry

​

Common Symptoms of GAD

GAD affects both the mind and body. Common symptoms include:

• Feeling tense, restless, or on edge

• Constant worry or dread

• Trouble sleeping or staying asleep

• Difficulty concentrating

• Muscle aches or fatigue

• Irritability or feeling overwhelmed

These symptoms can interfere with work, relationships, and day-to-day life

​

How Common Is GAD in the UK?

GAD is one of the most frequently diagnosed anxiety disorders in the UK.

• Around 6% of adults experience GAD in any given year

• More than 1 in 10 people will be affected at some point in their life

• It can begin in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood

• GAD is more commonly diagnosed in women, but it affects people of all genders

Despite being common, GAD often goes unrecognised or untreated.  Often, those that have been living with GAD for a number of years will report feeling as though it is a part of their personality, or who they are. 

​

NICE Guidance on Treating GAD

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recognises CBT as an effective therapy in treating GAD.  

​

​

Get Started

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by constant worry, know that effective, evidence-based support is available.

​