Group 1 - Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various life events lasting more than 6 months [2][3] - GAD differs from normal anxiety in that it encompasses a wide range of concerns, including work, family, health, and even minor issues like weather or traffic [2][3] - Physical symptoms associated with GAD include irritability, insomnia, heart palpitations, and muscle tension, indicating that it affects both mental and physical health [3][4] Group 2 - The brain's amygdala, responsible for processing danger signals, is more active in individuals with GAD, leading to heightened anxiety responses [5][6] - GAD patients often engage in catastrophic thinking, magnifying unlikely negative events into perceived certainties [7] - Past experiences of instability or trauma can contribute to the development of GAD, as individuals may learn to view the world as dangerous and uncontrollable [7][8] Group 3 - To combat anxiety, individuals can use "reality testing" to challenge catastrophic thoughts by asking themselves about the likelihood of events and their potential outcomes [8][9] - Physical relaxation techniques, such as the "478 breathing method," can help alleviate anxiety symptoms by signaling safety to the brain [9] - Acknowledging and seeking help for GAD is crucial, as it is a common issue that can be managed with proper support [10][11]