Swift River Mental Health Practice Exam 2026 - Free Mental Health Practice Questions and Study Guide

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, including work, health, and social interactions. Individuals with GAD often find it challenging to control their anxiety, leading to significant distress and functional impairment. This worry is pervasive and typically lasts for six months or longer, making it a key feature of this disorder.

People with GAD may experience physical symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. The worry is not limited to specific events or situations but is more generalized, affecting multiple areas of life.

Other mental health disorders mentioned, such as Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, have distinct characteristics and symptom profiles that do not primarily center around excessive and uncontrollable worry. For instance, Major Depressive Disorder focuses more on low mood and loss of interest, while Bipolar Disorder involves mood swings between depression and mania. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder features recurring obsessions and compulsions rather than generalized worrying. Therefore, Generalized Anxiety Disorder correctly identifies the core characteristic of excessive and uncontrollable worry.