The symptoms of general anxiety disorder (GAD) often develop slowly. How severe they are varies from person to person.

Some people have only one or two symptoms, while others have many more.

Anxiety can affect you physically and mentally.

Psychological symptoms of anxiety

GAD can cause a change in your behaviour and the way you think and feel about things. Psychological symptoms of GAD include:

• restlessness
• a sense of dread
• feeling constantly "on edge"
• difficulty concentrating
• irritability
• impatience
• being easily distracted

Your symptoms may cause you to withdraw from social contact (seeing your family and friends) to avoid feelings of worry and dread. You may also find going to work difficult and stressful and may take time off sick. These actions can make you worry even more about yourself and increase your lack of self-esteem.

Physical symptoms of anxiety

The physical symptoms of GAD can include:

• dizziness
• drowsiness and tiredness
• pins and needles
• irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• muscle aches and tension
• dry mouth
• excessive sweating
• shortness of breath
• stomach ache
• nausea
• diarrhoea
• headache
• excessive thirst
• frequent urinating
• painful or missed periods
• difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia)