Generalized Anxiety Disorder is thought of as the most basic of the anxiety disorders. What is the best description of its central difficulty? Group of answer choices
A The duration of the worry
B The content of the worries
C The absence of fear
D The frequency and regulation of worry
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D: The frequency and regulation of worry.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of daily life, such as work, health, social interactions, or minor matters. What makes GAD distinct from other anxiety disorders is not just the subject matter of the worry (which can vary), but the frequency and intensity of the worry and the inability to control or regulate it.
In GAD, individuals worry persistently and disproportionately to the situation at hand, and this worry can be chronic, lasting for at least six months or more. The worry can occur in response to numerous stressors, both major and minor, making it difficult for the individual to experience a sense of relief or calm. This constant state of worry is exhausting and often interferes with daily functioning, including sleep, work, and social relationships.
While people with GAD may have worries about a variety of topics, it is the regulation of worry that stands out. Those with GAD find it challenging to manage or stop their anxious thoughts, even when they recognize that their worries are exaggerated or unrealistic. Unlike some other anxiety disorders, where fear or panic is triggered by specific situations, GAD’s central issue is an uncontrollable pattern of worry that pervades many areas of life.
Additionally, the severity and persistence of worry can lead to physical symptoms, such as fatigue, muscle tension, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and restlessness. In fact, the physical manifestations of worry often become as much a concern for individuals with GAD as the mental aspects. As such, effective treatment often includes both cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication to address both the frequency and the regulation of anxiety.