What are the key diagnostic criteria for generalized anxiety disorder according to NICE guidelines?

According to NICE guidelines, the identification and assessment of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults involve a comprehensive approach rather than a strict list of diagnostic criteria ².

Healthcare professionals should be alert to possible anxiety disorders, especially in individuals with a history of anxiety, somatic symptoms, or recent traumatic events ². It is recommended to consider asking the person about their feelings of anxiety and their ability to stop or control worry, potentially using the 2-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-2) ².

The diagnosis of GAD should be considered in people presenting with anxiety or significant worry, particularly those who frequently attend primary care and have a chronic physical health problem, seek reassurance about somatic symptoms without a physical health problem (especially older people and minority ethnic groups), or repeatedly worry about a wide range of different issues ². When a person seeks reassurance about a chronic physical health problem, somatic symptoms, or repeated worrying, it is important to consider with them whether some of their symptoms may be due to GAD ².

A comprehensive assessment for people who may have GAD should be conducted, which considers not only the number, severity, and duration of symptoms but also the degree of distress and functional impairment ². The diagnosis should be identified and communicated as early as possible to facilitate understanding and prompt treatment ².