Final answer:
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by a persistent feeling of anxiety without a specific cause, affecting a significant part of the adult population and requiring professional assistance for management.
Step-by-step explanation:
The anxiety disorder characterized by a persistent, pervasive feeling of anxiety for which no specific reason can be identified is known as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). This condition is part of a broader category of mental health issues, affecting a significant portion of the population, with nearly 18 percent of U.S. adults likely to be affected in a single year.
Unlike occasional anxiety, which is a common reaction to stress, anxiety disorders such as GAD, OCD, PTSD, panic disorders, and phobias involve feelings of worry and fearfulness that persist for extended periods and can severely impact a person's daily functioning. It is essential for individuals experiencing such symptoms to seek professional help, as treatments are available to manage and alleviate the distress associated with these disorders.