How can I tell if I have generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) causes you to feel anxious or worried much of the time. While everyone may worry about their family, job, and health, people with GAD have unrealistic fears and worries. They often feel overwhelmed and live their life anticipating disaster, with their worries generally way out of proportion to the reality they face. This persistent anxiety leaves those with GAD unable to relax, concentrate, or sleep. Those with GAD may also have other physical symptoms like trembling, muscle tension, and nausea.

Are you feeling uneasy or worried about situations or dangers, either at home, at work or socially? Do you feel restless? Are you having trouble concentrating? Are you constantly or unnecessarily worried about your children, finances or health or the well-being of your family and friends?

Some anxiety is normal in everyone's life, especially when faced with the myriad of life's challenges, such as tight deadlines or public speaking, or with major life changes, such as buying a house. Being anxious also can put you on alert and make you better able to produce or perform. Severe, chronic anxiety, however, is not healthy for you. If you are frequently anxious, and sense that this anxiety is preventing you from going through your daily life, you may have generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

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