Question

What is the neurobiology of generalized anxiety disorder?

Answer 1

The neurobiology of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) follows the symptoms of GAD. GAD is comprised of worry (generalized worry) and fear (muscle tension, difficulty sleeping, poor concentration, fatigue). So with regards to neurobiology, worry is regulated by the cortico-striatal-thalamic-cortical (CSTC) circuit, and fear is regulated by the amygdala. In GAD, the amygdala and CSTC circuits malfunction constantly and are persistent, but are not severe.