Chp 4: Anxiety Disorders

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Excessive anxiety and worry about various activities/events occurring more days than not for 6+ months. 3+ symptoms of restlessness and mental fatigue.

DSM-5-TR criteria Panic Disorder

A sudden surge of intense fear reaching a peak within minutes, with 4+ specific symptoms. Severe physical symptoms cardio, respiratory, autonomic.

Agoraphobia criteria DSM5

Fear/anxiety about at least two situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable if panic-like symptoms occur. 6+ months out of proportion to actual danger

Social Anxiety Disorder criteria DSM5

Marked fear. about social situations with potential scrutiny. 6+ months

Specific Phobias criteria DSM5

Immediate anxiety response when exposed to the specific object or situation. 6+ months

Separation Anxiety Disorder

Developmentally inappropriate anxiety about separation from attachment figures.

Selective Mutism

Consistent failure to speak in specific social situations despite speaking elsewhere.

Substance/Medication- Induced Anxiety

Caffeine, stimulants, cannabis, and alcohol withdrawal.

What is Taijin kyofusho?

A Japanese variant of social anxiety characterized by fear of offending others.

What is ataque de nervios?

A Latino/Hispanic panic-like syndrome.

What is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in anxiety disorders?

GABA, with dysfunction leading to excessive arousal.

How does the hippocampus contribute to anxiety disorders?

It has a smaller volume, leading to context processing deficits.

What is the impact of classical conditioning on anxiety disorders?

It leads to fear acquisition where a neutral stimulus becomes associated with trauma.

What is the concept of 'preparedness theory' in relation to anxiety?

It suggests an evolutionary predisposition to fear certain stimuli.

What is the role of negative reinforcement in operant conditioning related to anxiety?

Avoidance reduces anxiety, providing temporary relief.

What does Beck's Cognitive Model emphasize in understanding anxiety?

Danger schemas and cognitive distortions like catastrophizing.

What is the 'vicious cycle' described in Clark's Panic Model?

Sensation leads to misinterpretation, which causes anxiety and more sensations.

What does the GAD-7 measure in relation to anxiety?

It assesses generalized anxiety disorder with a 7-item scale.

Behavioral Approach Tasks (BATs) used for in anxiety assessment?

To directly observe responses to feared stimuli.

What is the significance of epigenetics in the context of anxiety disorders?

It involves stress-induced methylation changes that affect gene expression.

What is the role of the prefrontal cortex in anxiety disorders?

It is hypoactive, leading to poor top-down regulation of fear responses.

What are the key components of CBT?

Psychoeducation about anxiety, cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and relapse prevention.

What is the primary focus of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Psychological flexibility rather than symptom reduction.

What is the mechanism of action for SSRIs in treating anxiety?

Enhanced serotonin leading to reduced amygdala reactivity.

What is the purpose of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in anxiety treatment?

Emerging evidence for treating GAD and PTSD by targeting the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

What is a common concern regarding the use of benzodiazepines?

The risk of dependency and addiction.

What are the two types of exposure therapy?

Gradual exposure and intensive exposure (flooding).

What is the efficacy of mindfulness-based therapies?

Comparable to CBT in treating anxiety.

What physical health issues are associated with anxiety disorders?

Increased risk of heart disease, suppressed immune function, muscle tension, headaches, GI issues, and insomnia.