Condition information
Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is persistent, excessive worry about everyday events that's hard to control and lasts for months. Effective, evidence-based treatments exist — CBT remains first-line, with strong outcomes for most adults.
Common experiences
- Persistent worry that feels uncontrollable
- Difficulty concentrating or 'mind going blank'
- Muscle tension — jaw, shoulders, back
- Sleep problems — falling asleep, staying asleep
- Irritability disproportionate to the situation
- Fatigue that doesn't lift with rest
- Physical symptoms — headaches, stomach upset, racing heart
Clinical notes
Australian context: About 1 in 25 Australian adults each year. Source.
Clinical coding reference: DSM-5: 300.02 · ICD-11: 6B00
This page is general information only. It is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A registered psychologist or doctor can help work out what is happening in your situation.
Questions people often ask
Is GAD the same as 'stress'?
Stress is usually time-limited and tied to a specific situation. GAD is persistent, present most days for 6+ months, often without a clear external cause, and significantly interferes with daily life.
Will I need medication?
Many people improve with psychological therapy alone. Some benefit from a combination of therapy and medication, prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist. Your psychologist will discuss options with you.
How long does treatment take?
Most people see meaningful change in 10–16 sessions of CBT. Some need longer; some shorter. We review progress every 6 weeks.
Can I get a Medicare rebate?
Yes. With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, Medicare rebates 10 sessions per calendar year. See our /medicare/ page for detail.
What if my anxiety is mostly physical (chest tightness, racing heart)?
Physical symptoms are very common in GAD. We’ll work with both — the cognitive patterns and the body’s stress response.
Need help deciding what to do next?
Reception can help you choose the right appointment type or clinician. If you feel unsafe or at immediate risk, use the urgent help page first.