Understanding Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our psychologists and counsellors provide evidence-based therapy for Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) for children, adolescents, adults and older adults across the Sutherland Shire and southern Sydney. Sessions are available in person at our Menai practice and via secure online appointments across Australia.

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Generalised Anxiety Disorder is one of the most common forms of anxiety, involving persistent and excessive worry about everyday situations such as work, relationships, health or responsibilities. Unlike situational stress, this worry can feel constant and difficult to control.

 

You can learn more about broader anxiety experiences on our Anxiety page.

 

Generalised Anxiety Disorder can affect both emotional and physical wellbeing. Many people describe feeling constantly “on edge,” anticipating problems or struggling to switch off their thoughts.

 

Common symptoms may include:

• persistent or excessive worry

• muscle tension

• irritability

• headaches

• restlessness

• difficulty concentrating

• fatigue

• nausea or stomach discomfort

• disrupted sleep

 

Over time, ongoing anxiety may also contribute to avoidance, low mood and difficulty managing everyday responsibilities.

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For some individuals, GAD may also occur alongside other experiences such as Depression, Panic Disorder, Trauma, or ADHD, which can influence how anxiety is experienced and managed.

 

Therapy for Generalised Anxiety Disorder

 

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology, therapy focuses on understanding how chronic worry develops and how it interacts with the nervous system, thinking patterns and life stressors.

 

Our psychologists and counsellors take a collaborative, person-centred approach, supporting clients to recognise patterns of worry, strengthen emotional regulation and develop more flexible ways of responding to uncertainty.

 

Clinicians draw on a range of evidence-based approaches, including:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

• Schema Therapy

• Mindfulness-based strategies

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Therapy may also include practical skills such as grounding techniques, sleep regulation, mindfulness practices and strategies for managing overthinking and worry cycles.

 

Sessions are available in person at our Menai practice in the Sutherland Shire, or via secure online therapy across Sydney and Australia.

 

If you’re unsure where to begin, our Client Care Team can assist.  Call 02 8519 4197 or use the button below to request an appointment.