Reference
Guide | Reference

56  Generalized Worry Pattern Prototype

56.1 Summary

  • A pattern of persistent, diffuse worry across multiple domains with tension, restlessness, and difficulty controlling the worry.

56.2 Prototype Features

  • Excessive worry in multiple areas (health, work, family, finances).
  • Cognitive rumination and reassurance seeking.
  • Physical tension, fatigue, or sleep disruption.

56.3 Threshold Guidance

  • Use when worry is pervasive, difficult to control, and functionally impairing.

56.4 Expected Domain Profile

  • Anxiety and Threat Sensitivity: moderate to high.
  • Arousal, Sleep, and Circadian Regulation: mild to moderate disruption.

56.5 Time-Course and Trajectory

  • Chronic baseline elevation with stress-related spikes.
  • Fluctuates with life events and uncertainty.

56.6 Differential and Red Flags

  • Mood dysregulation with agitation.
  • Obsessional intrusive thoughts.
  • Substance effects or withdrawal.
  • Medical contributors (thyroid, cardiopulmonary).

56.7 Specifiers (treatment-relevant, non-prescriptive)

  • Course/time pattern (chronic, fluctuating).
  • Contributors (sleep debt, caffeine, ongoing stress).
  • Risk modifiers (distress vs impairment mismatch).

56.8 Measurement Prompts

  • Brief worry or anxiety measure.
  • Sleep and tension tracking.

56.10 Documentation Snippet (1-2 lines)

  • “Diffuse, persistent worry across domains with tension and insomnia; Threat 3, Arousal 2; chronic course.”