Which anxiety disorder is characterized by a persistent sense of worry for at least 6 months?

The disorder characterized by a persistent sense of worry for at least six months is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). Individuals with GAD experience excessive anxiety and worry about various aspects of life, such as personal health, work, social interactions, and everyday circumstances. This worry is often difficult to control and can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

GAD is distinct from other anxiety disorders in its chronic nature and the breadth of its focus. While panic disorder involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks and intense fear, and specific phobia focuses on excessive fear related to a particular object or situation, GAD encompasses a more generalized and pervasive anxiety. Social anxiety disorder specifically revolves around a fear of social situations and being judged by others, which is not the core feature of GAD. Thus, the defining characteristic of a persistent sense of worry for at least six months aligns accurately with the criteria set for Generalized Anxiety Disorder.