GAD does run in families, so there may be a genetic/epigenetic component. GAD does not mean constant worrying. But even if it did, not all of us do that. I used to. I don't any more.
Here's DSM on the symptoms (a person must have 5 of the following):
- Feeling restless, wound-up, or on-edge.
- Being easily fatigued.
- Having difficulty concentrating.
- Being irritable.
- Having headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches, or unexplained pains.
- Difficulty controlling feelings of worry.
- Having sleep problems, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep.
You can have GAD and not have that 6th symptom. You can have GAD and not have any two of these symptoms. It can be confused with ADD/ADHD and with CFS.
Since I claim I don't have it (but used to be a chronic worried), I would need 4 more symptoms from this list. I have sleep problems, for years. I never feel restless, wound-up or on edge. I am not easily fatigued. I have no difficulty concentrating. I have no unexplained pain. I am not irritable.
I do not have GAD (even with my past history of worrying - one symptom does NOT make something a psychiatric disorder).
IMO.
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