Generalized Anxiety Disorder is indicated by anxiety about how long?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety that occurs more days than not for a significant period. According to the DSM-5, the duration requirement for this disorder is that the anxiety and worry must occur for at least six months, indicating a chronic level of anxiety that can impact functioning. This six-month period allows for the differentiation between normative anxiety responses and those that are persistent and excessive, which characterize GAD. By establishing a duration of more than six months, the DSM-5 sets a standard for diagnosing GAD that captures the ongoing nature of the disorder. This means the correct response aligns with how GAD is clinically defined and recognized in practice.