What is a common symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Excessive worrying is a hallmark symptom of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). This condition is characterized by persistent and uncontrollable anxiety about various aspects of life, such as health, work, or social interactions. Individuals with GAD often find their worries to be disproportionate to the actual situation, and this chronic state of anxiety can interfere significantly with their daily functioning and quality of life.

The nature of excessive worrying in GAD differs from that seen in other anxiety disorders, as it is not limited to specific triggers or situations. Instead, those with GAD tend to experience a broad range of anxieties and a general sense of impending doom, making it a pervasive feature of the disorder.

In contrast, while difficulty in communicating, extreme mood swings, and loss of interest in daily activities can occur in various mental health conditions, they are not defining symptoms of GAD. For example, these symptoms may be more characteristic of mood disorders or other anxiety-related conditions. Understanding the core symptomatology, such as excessive worrying, is crucial for the appropriate identification and management of generalized anxiety disorder.