What are the main symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

The main symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) include excessive worry and restlessness. Individuals with GAD often experience persistent anxiety about various aspects of their lives, including work, health, and social interactions. This excessive worry is typically difficult to control and can interfere with daily functioning.

Restlessness is another hallmark symptom, which reflects a sense of being on edge or unable to relax. It can manifest physically, with individuals feeling fidgety or having difficulty sitting still. These symptoms can lead to significant distress and impairment, as the anxiety is broad and may not be tied to any specific event or situation.

Other options describe symptoms that are generally related to different anxiety disorders or mental health challenges. For example, intense fear and discomfort align more closely with panic attacks or specific phobias. Inability to focus and muscle relaxation pertain to symptoms that might be observed in various contexts but do not specifically characterize GAD. Chronic sadness and apathy are more indicative of depressive disorders rather than anxiety disorders. Thus, the characteristics of excessive worry and restlessness distinctly define GAD.