What is generalised anxiety disorder? Treatment options in Australia 

Overview

Experiencing anxiety is a natural and beneficial reaction to stress, aiding us in remaining alert and prepared. However, when feelings of worry become persistent, overwhelming, and hard to manage, it could indicate a more serious issue.

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is a chronic mental health condition marked by excessive and persistent worry about a range of everyday matters, occurring more days than not. It can affect work, personal relationships, sleep, and overall quality of life.

According to the expert psychotherapist Amira, the reassuring news is that GAD is treatable, and effective support is widely available in Australia.

Note: This content is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telehealth is not a crisis management service. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing thoughts of self-harm, call 000. The issuance of prescriptions and Mental Health Treatment Plans is at the strict clinical discretion of the doctor. Hola Health doctors do not prescribe drugs of dependence. We recommend sharing your consult summaries with your regular GP and bulk billing is available for eligible patients during Medicare-defined periods; otherwise, private fees apply. Ensure your privacy is protected. All consultations are strictly confidential and conducted via secure, encrypted platforms to safeguard your personal health data.

What is generalised anxiety disorder?

Answer by Amira, an expert therapist -

GAD is a long-term condition characterised by excessive, ongoing anxiety and worry that is difficult to control, often focused on everyday concerns such as health, family, finances, or work. Unlike temporary stress, these worries are frequent, occurring on most days. For a diagnosis, symptoms usually persist for six months or longer. GAD is common in Australia and can affect people of all ages, often developing gradually over time.

Common symptoms

Emotional and cognitive symptoms

• Ongoing worry
• Feeling tense
• Struggling to concentrate
• Catastrophic thinking
• Irritability

Physical symptoms

• Exhaustion
• Muscle tightness
• Restlessness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty sleeping
• Digestive or stomach problems

Behavioural symptoms

• Avoiding particular situations
• Seeking reassurance
• Excessively checking or planning

What causes GAD?

GAD does not stem from a single source. Instead, it arises from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental influences, including:

• Family history or genetic predisposition
• Previous trauma or negative experiences
• Chronic stress
• Personality traits such as perfectionism or a strong sense of responsibility
• Specific medical conditions or side effects from medications
• Alterations in brain chemistry

How GAD is diagnosed

Diagnosis typically starts with a visit to a GP, who will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and the duration of your anxiety. They may utilise screening tools such as the K10 or GAD-7 to gauge severity. Your GP will also rule out physical conditions, such as thyroid disorders or anemia. If necessary, they might refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for specialised assistance.

Treatment options for GAD

Psychological treatments

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Assists in identifying and challenging unhelpful beliefs and replacing them with more balanced perspectives.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Teaches acceptance of difficult thoughts while promoting actions aligned with one's values.
• Mindfulness-based therapy: Aids in calming the mind and enhancing emotional regulation.
• General counselling: Provides support, coping mechanisms, and structured problem-solving.

Medication options

GPs or psychiatrists may prescribe medications to help manage symptoms, such as:

• Antidepressants: Including specific classes like SSRIs or SNRIs, which are commonly used for long-term anxiety management.

Important Prescribing Policy: Please note that Hola Health doctors do not prescribe Schedule 8 or Schedule 4 drugs of dependence (such as benzodiazepines or sedatives) via telehealth. Treatment will focus on sustainable, non-addictive management strategies.

Lifestyle management and self-help strategies

• Regular physical activity
• Healthy sleep patterns
• Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake
• Journaling or tracking thoughts
• Breathing exercises
• Practising relaxation and mindfulness techniques

These approaches complement and enhance professional treatment.

Immediate crisis support services in Australia

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, severe distress, or thoughts of self-harm, please call 000 immediately or go to your nearest Emergency Department.

For 24/7 confidential support, you can also contact:

• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
• Head to Health
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

These organisations offer counselling, resources, and emotional support.

Medicare and mental health treatment in Australia

Australians may be eligible to access subsidised care through a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP), which provides rebates for psychology sessions.

Telehealth Eligibility Note: Under Medicare rules, accessing a Medicare rebate for a telehealth MHTP or GP consultation generally requires you to have an existing clinical relationship with the doctor (having seen them face-to-face in the last 12 months). If you do not meet these criteria, private consultation fees will apply.

When to consult a doctor

You should consult a GP if:

• Symptoms persist for more than two weeks
• You find it difficult to function at work, school, or home
• You experience panic attacks or severe physical symptoms
• Your sleep is disrupted
• You feel overwhelmed or unable to cope

How Hola Health connects you to care

If anxiety is impacting your daily functioning, sleep, or relationships for more than two weeks, it is time to seek support. A telehealth GP can act as your starting point:

• Assessment: Reviewing your symptoms to distinguish between situational stress and GAD, and ruling out physical causes (like thyroid issues) via pathology test referrals.
• Mental Health Treatment Plans (MHTP): If clinically appropriate, a GP can formulate a care plan. (Note: This requires a longer consultation booking).
• Referrals: Providing referrals to Psychologists or Psychiatrists for specialized therapy.
• Medical Certificates: Issuing certificates if you need mental health leave from work or university to recover.

Conclusion

Generalised anxiety disorder is a prevalent yet highly treatable condition. With the appropriate combination of psychological assistance, lifestyle adjustments, and medical intervention, many see positive changes in their everyday lives and overall well-being. If excessive worry is affecting your daily functioning, speaking with a GP is an important first step toward recovery.

FAQ

Is GAD the same as regular anxiety?

No. Regular anxiety is short-lived, whereas GAD consists of ongoing and uncontrollable worry.

Can GAD resolve on its own?

Symptoms might vary, but typically require treatment for noticeable improvement.

How long does the treatment process take?

It differs for everyone—some individuals show improvement within weeks, while others need longer-lasting assistance.

What is the most effective approach to treat GAD?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), along with lifestyle modifications and, if necessary, medication.

Can online doctors assist with anxiety treatment?

Yes. They can evaluate symptoms, create Mental Health Treatment Plans, refer to psychologists, and manage prescriptions.