What is the definition of generalized anxiety disorder?

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry that is persistent and occurs more days than not for at least a six-month period. This worry is often disproportionate to the actual source of anxiety and is difficult for the individual to control. The nature of the anxiety can encompass a broad range of topics, such as health, work, or social interactions, leading to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

The defining criteria for GAD emphasize not just the presence of anxiety, but also its duration and the degree to which it affects a person's life. While many individuals may worry about specific issues or experience intense fear related to particular situations, GAD is distinct in that it involves a more pervasive pattern of anxiety that is not limited to particular triggers. This chronic and diffuse nature of worry is what solidifies the diagnosis of GAD.