Excessive Worry: Generalised Anxiety Disorder Worry is a normal part of life. It is natural to be anxious about attending a job interview or delivering a presentation. Worry helps us to prepare. However, worry becomes a problem when it is excessive and disruptive as it interferes in our day to day functioning. Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder characterised by excessive, uncontrollable and often irrational worry about everyday things. Individuals with generalised anxiety are often preoccupied with worrisome rumination and catastrophic thoughts. They are overly concerned about everyday matters such as money, relationships, health, or work. Their thinking is centred on anticipated consequences what might happen or unreasonable self-expectations. They tend to engage in “what if” thoughts such as: • “what if everything goes wrong” • “what if I fail my exams” • “what if I lose my job” They often expect the worst and worry excessively about things that are unlikely to happen. Their worries are so constant that they interfere with their ability to function and relax. Their worries significantly impact their job, activities, or social life, as it increases anxiety and tension levels. Their worries are accompanied by physical symptoms; such as fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, muscle aches, difficulty swallowing, trembling, twitching, irritability, sweating, difficulties with concentration and sleep. It is very upsetting and stressful to worry excessively and that worry takes up a large part of our typical day. If your worries are interfering in your day to day functioning, seek professional help. At Amicus Counselling and Clinical Psychological Services, we provide evidence based treatment to help individuals with excessive worry/ generalised anxiety to overcome their difficulties and have a normal life. For an appointment please call 1 800 AMICUS (1 800 264 287). Amicus Counselling is located at: Level 56 MLC Centre, 19-29 Martin Place Sydney NSW 2000 Level 1, 65 Hume Street Crows Nest NSW 2065 | 
