😵‍💫Anxiety Disorders & Treatments

Anxiety

A mental health disorder involving excessive fear, worry, and nervousness that interferes with daily life. Linked to low GABA and high glutamate in the brain

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)

An inhibitory neurotransmitter that calms brain activity. Low levels are linked to anxiety

Glutamate

An excitatory neurotransmitter that increases brain activity. High levels can contribute to anxiety

Risk Factors for Anxiety

Include genetics, brain chemistry (low GABA, high glutamate), traumatic events, and chronic stress

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A therapy that helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns to manage anxiety

Benzodiazepines

Drugs that enhance GABA and provide fast relief for acute anxiety

Drugs class : Benzodiazepines

• Alprazolam (Xanax)

• Clonazepam (Klonopin)

• Diazepam (Valium)

• Lorazepam (Ativan)
  Common endings: -lam, -pam

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

Drugs that increase serotonin in the brain to treat long-term anxiety

Drugs Class : SSRIs

• Escitalopram (Lexapro)

• Citalopram (Celexa)

• Sertraline (Zoloft)
  Note: May increase suicidal thoughts in adolescents.

Beta Blockers

Drugs used to treat physical symptoms of anxiety (e.g., rapid heartbeat)

Drugs Class : Beta-Blockers (anxiety)

• Propranolol

• Atenolol

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Excessive worry about daily life events for at least 6 months. Symptoms: Fatigue, restlessness, trouble concentrating

Panic Disorder

Sudden episodes of intense fear (panic attacks) with physical symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath

Social Anxiety Disorder

Intense fear of social situations or being judged by others

Specific Phobias

Irrational fear of specific objects or situations (e.g., spiders, heights, flying)

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Repetitive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and rituals (compulsions) performed to relieve anxiety

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Anxiety triggered by a traumatic event.

Symptoms: Flashbacks, nightmares, emotional numbness.