Is generalized anxiety disorder a mental illness?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

Generalized anxiety disorder is primarily characterized by long-term, excessive worry without a specific focus, accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations and insomnia. Patients are mentally alert with normal cognitive function and can distinguish between reality and their anxious feelings. It is fundamentally different from psychotic disorders that center on hallucinations and delusions, and is classified as a mild to moderate psychological condition.

Generally, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is not considered a psychotic illness. It is a common type of anxiety disorder; however, if psychotic symptoms are present, special attention is required. If there are concerns, it is recommended to seek medical consultation early. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Generalized anxiety disorder primarily manifests as persistent and excessive worry without a clear focus, accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations and insomnia. Patients remain mentally alert with intact cognitive function and are able to distinguish between reality and their anxious feelings. This fundamentally differs from psychotic disorders characterized by hallucinations and delusions, and GAD is classified as a mild to moderate mental health condition.

If a patient with generalized anxiety disorder experiences severe symptoms or has comorbid mental health conditions that lead to psychotic features—such as hallucinations, delusions, or disorganized thinking—the complexity of the condition should raise concern. A professional evaluation is necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis, avoiding mismanagement as simple anxiety and preventing delays in receiving appropriate interventions.

If anxiety symptoms persist and fail to improve over time, timely medical evaluation is essential to confirm the diagnosis and follow professional treatment recommendations. Additionally, maintaining regular sleep patterns and engaging in moderate physical activity can support symptom management, helping prevent delayed recovery due to misunderstanding the nature of the condition.

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