Understanding Anxiety and Its Disorders

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to anxiety and its disorders, aimed at enhancing understanding and recall.

Anxiety

A vague feeling of dread or apprehension, different from fear.

General Adaptation Syndrome

Physiological response to stress identified by Selye, consisting of alarm reaction, resistance stage, and exhaustion stage.

Mild Anxiety

Sensing something is different, requiring special attention; motivational and increased sensory stimulation.

Panic Response

Fight, flight, or freeze response characterized by increased vital signs and cognitive focus on defense.

Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Therapy that includes techniques like positive reframing and decatastrophizing to manage anxiety.

Agoraphobia

An anxiety disorder characterized by extreme fear of situations where escape might be difficult.

Phobia

Intense, illogical, persistent fear of a specific object or situation, often disproportionate to the actual danger.

Etiology of Anxiety Disorders

Includes biological theories (genetic, neurochemical) and psychodynamic theories (intrapsychic, interpersonal).

Cultural Considerations in Anxiety

Awareness that expressing and dealing with anxiety can vary across different cultures.

Management of Panic Disorder

Includes CBT, deep breathing techniques, and the use of medications such as benzodiazepines and SSRIs.