Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
GAD is a psychological disorder characterized by excessive worry about everyday things for at least six months. People with GAD find it difficult to control their anxiety levels which can interfere with daily activities.
A chronic condition where a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over.
"Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)" also found in: