Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive, & Related Disorders

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to anxiety, OCD, and related disorders.

Anxiety

A feeling of discomfort, apprehension, or dread related to perceived danger.

Panic Disorder

A condition characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and persistent concern about having more attacks.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

A mental disorder characterized by persistent, excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not for at least six months.

Agoraphobia

Fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, often leading to avoidance.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

A disorder characterized by obsessions (intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors) performed to reduce anxiety.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

A mental health condition involving an obsession with perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance.

Trichotillomania

A disorder characterized by recurrent, irresistible urges to pull out one's hair.

Hoarding Disorder

Persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value.

Social Phobia

Severe anxiety in social situations, stemming from a fear of being judged or embarrassed.

Specific Phobia

An irrational fear of a specific object or situation, leading to significant anxiety or panic attacks.

Derealization

A feeling of being detached from one’s surroundings or experiencing the world as unreal.

Depersonalization

A feeling of being disconnected from one’s thoughts, body, or self.

Psychodynamic Theory

A theoretical approach suggesting that maladaptive behaviors arise from unconscious conflicts.

Cognitive Theory

A psychological theory asserting that distorted thinking and irrational beliefs lead to maladaptive behaviors.

Biological Aspects of Anxiety

Factors such as genetics, brain chemistry, and physiological responses that contribute to anxiety disorders.

SSRIs

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors, commonly prescribed for treating anxiety and depression.

Treatment for GAD

Includes psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms.

Anxiety Assessment Scales

Tools used to measure anxiety levels, such as the Beck Anxiety Inventory and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale.

Systematic Desensitization

A behavioral therapy technique aimed at reducing fear or anxiety by gradual exposure to the feared object or context.

Compulsions

Repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsession.

Obsessions

Recurrent, persistent thoughts, urges, or images that are experienced as intrusive and unwanted.

Medication-Induced Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety that is a direct consequence of substance use or withdrawal.

Social Anxiety Disorder

A chronic mental health condition where social interactions cause irrational anxiety.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps patients understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors.