Prevalence Rates for Men and Women

One notable fact about Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is that it affects a larger number of women than men. Brown, O'Leary, and Barlow (2001) summarized current prevalence estimates, and reported that the most current information shows that there is a 2:1 female/male ratio for GAD. A recent German study found that 6.6% of women and 3.6% of men at some point during the lifespan. DSM-IV has slightly different figures and reported that between 55-60% of sufferers are women. Despite some slight differences, there is consensus opinion that GAD is experienced more frequently by women than men.

Sources: American Psychiatric Association (2000). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Washington DC: American Psychiatric Association.

Barlow D.H. (Ed.)(2001). Clinical Handbook of Psychological Disorders (3rd Ed.). New York: Guilford Press.

Wittchen, H.U. (2002). Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Prevalence, Burden, and Cost to Society. Depression & Anxiety, 16, 162-171.