Anxiety Disorders Overview

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, symptoms, and treatment options for anxiety disorders as discussed in the lecture.

What are common physical symptoms of anxiety?

Shortness of breath, nausea, dry mouth, muscle stiffness, dizziness, and sleep disturbances.

What is the central feature of Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Excessive worry about various events, present for at least six months.

What screening tools are commonly used for anxiety disorders?

Beck’s Anxiety Inventory, Hamilton Anxiety Scale, GAD-2, and GAD-7.

What are the major symptoms according to DSM-IV for GAD?

Excessive worry for more days than not, difficulty controlling worry, and six additional symptoms such as restlessness and sleep disturbance.

What is Social Phobia characterized by?

Persistent fear and anxiety about social or performance situations where embarrassment may occur.

What is the first-line drug treatment for anxiety disorders?

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), with Sertraline being the most cost-effective.

What is Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

A condition that can occur after exposure to traumatic events, leading to re-experiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal.

What are obsessions in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Unwanted intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly enter the mind.

What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?

Preoccupation with an imagined defect in one's appearance leading to time-consuming behaviors.

What factors are risk factors for anxiety disorders?

Female gender, history of other anxiety disorders, family history, and life stressors.