Many people may suffer from worry and anxiety. What differs with the sufferer of GAD is that the worry and anxiety interfere with normal functioning.

Worry and anxiety at stressful times is a normal, non-pathological response to the demands of everyday life. Individuals who suffer with GAD may find their condition worsen during times of stress but the condition will persist even when there is little genuine cause for anxiety.

Because worry and anxiety are considered to be a normal part of life it is often difficult for the GAD sufferer to take themselves and their condition seriously. More often than not they feel weak and worthless believing that others know how to cope while they cannot be functional.

This is one of the reasons why treatment is essential for those who suffer with this condition. Not only can appropriate medications be prescribed and therapy sought but understanding of the situation will raise the ailing self worth of the sufferer making a positive prognosis all the more possible.

People who suffer from GAD often struggle with insomnia and other symptoms of persistent anxiety. Although their worries may be about seemingly mundane, everyday things these concerns will place their neurology and physiology under continuous stress. GAD sufferers find it impossible to relax. They may suffer from many physical symptoms like hot flashes, shaking, headaches, fatigue and muscle aches.

Current treatment is a combination of cognitive and behavioral therapy coupled with appropriate medications. It is important that individuals who visit the doctor with physical symptoms like insomnia and headaches also inform him or her if worry and tension are also present.