Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of generalized anxiety disorder?

• A. Sleep disturbances
• B. Excessive fatigue
• C. Rapid mood swings
• D. Muscle tension

Answer: (C)

In generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), the hallmark symptoms typically include excessive worry, restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. Rapid mood swings are not generally considered a common symptom of GAD. Instead, individuals with GAD often exhibit a more consistent level of anxiety rather than experiencing sudden changes in mood.

Sleep disturbances can include trouble falling or staying asleep, while excessive fatigue can stem from the constant state of worry that characterizes GAD. Muscle tension is another prevalent symptom, as individuals often carry physical stress due to their anxiety. Therefore, the absence of rapid mood swings as a defining feature of GAD highlights why this choice is appropriate in identifying a non-characteristic symptom of the disorder.