Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) isn’t just stress or overthinking; it’s a relentless hum of anxiety that follows you everywhere. Even when things are fine, your brain is busy scanning for the next problem, stuck in a loop of “what ifs.”

Maybe you always feel on edge, like your body is bracing for something terrible. Maybe you can’t sleep because your mind won’t shut off. Maybe no amount of reassurance makes the worry go away. GAD isn’t about one specific fear–it’s about feeling uneasy all the time, even when you don’t know why.

Signs of GAD

Constant, excessive worry–about work, relationships, health, or just life in general
Restlessness, tension, or feeling “keyed up”
Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach issues, or fatigue
Irritability of feeling emotionally drained

How Therapy Can Help

GAD thrives on uncertainty, convincing you that if you just think harder, worry more, or prepare better, you’ll feel safe. But that never works. Therapy helps you break that cycle by:

CBT: Identifying & challenging anxious thought patterns so they have less power over you
Mindfulness & Grounding Techniques: Training your brain to stay in the present instead of spiralling into “what ifs.”
Exposure Therapy: Gently facing fears in a way that rewires your brain’s anxiety response
Practical Coping Tools: Learn strategies to manage anxiety in real-time, so it doesn’t dictate your choices

You don’t have to keep living on high alert. Reach out today –because peace of mind shouldn’t feel impossible.

Common Questions About GAD

What types of therapy help with GAD?

At CITC, we use evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based approaches. These therapies teach you how to challenge unhelpful thought patterns and reduce physical tension associated with chronic worry.

What can cause generalized anxiety disorder?

GAD develops from a combination of factors including genetics, personality traits, life experiences, and stress. It’s not your fault or a sign of weakness. Therapy helps you understand these influences and learn tools to calm your body and mind.