Anxiety Disorders & OCD

What are some etiologies of anxiety disorders?

Genetic susceptibility, behavioral risks, interpersonal stressors, amygdala sensitivity, poverty and financial stress, personality/temperament, neuroticism.

What is separation anxiety?

Excessive fear or anxiety about being separated from attachment figures.

What are the key features of selective mutism?

Failure to speak in specific social situations despite speaking in others, causing interference with social communication.

What characterizes a specific phobia?

Strong fear or anxiety about a specific object or situation that is out of proportion to the actual danger.

What are the symptoms of panic disorder?

Recurrent unexpected panic attacks with symptoms like palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath, and fear of losing control.

What triggers agoraphobia?

Fear or anxiety about being in situations where escape might be difficult, such as using public transportation or being alone outside.

What defines generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

Excessive anxiety and worry about various events or activities occurring more days than not for at least six months.

What are common etiologies of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Genetic susceptibility, dysfunction in brain regions, neuroticism, childhood maltreatment, and certain infectious agents.

What is body dysmorphic disorder?

Preoccupation with perceived defects in appearance that are not observable to others, leading to significant distress.

What characterizes trichotillomania?

Recurrent hair pulling resulting in hair loss and clinically significant distress.

What is hoarding disorder?

Persistent difficulty discarding possessions, leading to clutter and significant distress or impairment.

How does avoidance play a role in the anxiety cycle?

Anxiety provoking situation leads to increased symptoms, escape/avoidance, providing short-term relief but long-term consequences.