Which term best describes feelings of anxiety that are broad, long-lasting, and excessive?

The term that best describes feelings of anxiety that are broad, long-lasting, and excessive is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). GAD is characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of life, such as health, work, and social interactions, making it difficult for individuals to control their anxiety. The anxiety experienced is not limited to specific situations or triggers but is pervasive and tends to persist for six months or more.

GAD often includes physical symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbances. This distinguishes it from other anxiety disorders, which may have more specific triggers or contexts, such as panic attacks in panic disorder, where anxiety occurs suddenly and intensely, or social anxiety, which focuses on fear of social interactions. Thus, Generalized Anxiety Disorder encapsulates a broader, more enduring form of anxiety that affects daily functioning and overall quality of life.