What is generalized anxiety disorder? Occasional anxiety is a regular part of life. Many people may worry about health, money, or family problems. But people with GAD feel extremely worried or nervous more frequently about these and other things, even when there is little or no reason to worry about them. GAD usually involves a persistent feeling of anxiety or dread that interferes with how you live your life. It is not the same as occasionally worrying about things or experiencing anxiety due to stressful life events. People living with GAD experience frequent anxiety for months, if not years. GAD develops slowly. It often starts around age 30, although it can occur in childhood. The disorder is more common in women than in men.