Oakleigh-based psychologist Peter Kyriakoulis said the worrying associated with GAD was uncontrollable.

"All of us feel anxious at times and worry about everyday things, but someone with general anxiety disorder worries quite excessively. They chase thoughts and turn it into a worry episode. The more they worry, the more it becomes a habitual way of responding."

Sufferers often internalise their distress out of fear that they may burden the people around them.

Mr Kyriakoulis, who is of Greek descent, said hiding anxiety and not seeking help was common in some cultures.

"Some Greeks don't want to go to these events, and I'm sure it's the same for other southern European cultures, because they feel like they're going to be seen or judged by others. They think mental illness might be a sign of weakness."

Mr Kyriakoulis said people with GAD often had a number of other problems besides their worrying.

'They might have depression or other phobias," he said.

"The generalised anxiety maintains the depression."

Fortunately GAD can be managed, Mr Kyriakoulis said.

The Anxiety Disorders Association of Victoria (ADAVIC) will be running a lecture in Clayton to help sufferers minimise their distress.

Mr Kyriakoulis, who will present the lecture, said it was aimed to give people the tools to overcome and handle their worry levels.

"It's about self-educating people about anxiety, telling them a little bit about worrying and giving them techniques to be able to minimise their worrying, especially when it's unrealistic."

Don't Worry: Treating Generalised Anxiety Disorder is at 7.30pm on March 21 at Clayton Hall. Cost: $20 for non-members and $10 for ADAVIC members.