Worry & Fear
Persistent Worry
Ongoing, hard-to-control worry about multiple areas of life that feels excessive compared to the actual likelihood or impact of the feared events.
- “why do I worry so much”
- “can't stop thinking about what could go wrong”
- “always worried about something”
- “anxious about everything”
Also called constant worry, chronic anxiety, excessive worrying, can't stop worrying, always anxious, worry all the time.
What it can look like
Everyday moments people describe.
Some people describe their mind jumping from one worry to another throughout the day, never quite settling, even when things are going well.
Where it can come from
Many things can cause this. Only a clinician can tell which applies to you.
Persistent Worry in Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Persistent worry about multiple domains is the core feature, lasting at least six months.
How clinicians describe it
- “Excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not”
Often comes with
Check in with yourself
A short, validated questionnaire can help you put words to it before an appointment.
When to get help
- When worry occupies most of your day
- When it's hard to control despite trying
- When physical symptoms accompany the worry (tension, restlessness, sleep problems)
- When it's been going on for months