Anxiety Disorders Lecture Review

These flashcards cover key concepts, definitions, and important facts regarding anxiety disorders based on the lecture notes.

What are the four types of anxiety mentioned in the lecture?

Normal anxiety, acute anxiety, chronic anxiety, and severe anxiety.

What percentage of U.S. adults had an anxiety disorder in the past year?

19.1% of U.S. adults.

Define anxiety as described in the lecture.

Anxiety is a feeling of apprehension, uneasiness, uncertainty, or dread resulting from a perceived threat whose actual source is unknown or unrecognized.

What are some common symptoms associated with anxiety disorders?

Symptoms may be behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and/or physical.

What is the most common anxiety disorder in adults?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

What is the average age of onset for Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

30 years old.

What distinguishes panic disorder from other anxiety disorders?

Panic disorder involves recurrent and unexpected panic attacks that can lead to persistent concern or worry about additional attacks.

List one risk factor for developing anxiety disorders.

Genetic predisposition or poor coping skills.

What are examples of nonpharmacological treatments for anxiety disorders?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, milieu therapy, behavior modification, and supportive therapies.

What neurotransmitter is associated with calming effects to mitigate anxiety?

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

What does the term 'phobia' refer to in anxiety disorders?

An illogical intense and persistent fear of a specific object or situation that causes distress and interferes with normal functioning.

Give an example of a specific phobia.

Acrophobia (fear of heights) or claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces).

What pharmacological treatment is often used for anxiety disorders?

Benzodiazepines and SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors).

What are some common side effects of benzodiazepines?

Drowsiness, sedation, and potential for dependence.

What should be avoided when taking benzodiazepines?

Alcohol should be avoided when taking benzodiazepines.

What is a key component of cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating anxiety?

Developing a therapeutic relationship with the patient.

What are obsessions in the context of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Unwanted, intrusive, persistent thoughts, impulses, or images that cause significant anxiety or distress.

Discuss a common intervention for someone experiencing a panic attack.

Maintain a calm manner and ensure that the patient is not left alone during the episode.