Describe characteristics of people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

Individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) experience excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, even when there is no apparent reason for concern. Common characteristics of people with GAD include:

1. Excessive Worry: Persistent and intrusive worry about a wide range of events or activities, often anticipating the worst outcomes.

2. Difficulty Controlling Worry: Individuals with GAD find it challenging to control or stop their anxious thoughts, leading to a cycle of ongoing worry.

3. Physical Symptoms: GAD often manifests with physical symptoms such as restlessness, muscle tension, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

4. Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep due to excessive worry is a common feature of GAD.

5. Hyperarousal: Individuals may be easily startled, have a heightened startle response, or exhibit a general state of tension and restlessness.

6. Perfectionism: A tendency towards perfectionism and an excessive need for reassurance about decisions and future events.

7. Anticipatory Anxiety: Worry extends to future events, even those that are not imminent, leading to chronic anticipatory anxiety.

8. Physical Health Concerns: People with GAD may also express excessive concern about their health, even in the absence of significant medical issues.

GAD can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life. Treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and, in some cases, medication to manage symptoms and improve coping strategies. Seeking professional help is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and the development of an effective treatment plan.