Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders

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

Anxiety

A response to stress characterized by feelings of apprehension or fear.

Alarm Reaction Stage

The initial physiological response to stress identified by Hans Selye, including the release of adrenaline.

Resistance Stage

The stage of stress response where the body adapts to the stressor, resulting in increased physical efficiency.

Exhaustion Stage

The final phase of stress response where the body's ability to cope diminishes, leading to negative physiological consequences.

Panic Anxiety

An intense reaction characterized by a sudden onset of overwhelming fear or discomfort, often accompanied by physiological symptoms.

Maladaptive Behaviors

Behaviors that are counterproductive and may exacerbate anxiety, such as avoidance of stress-inducing situations.

Benzodiazepines

A class of medications used to treat anxiety disorders, known for their sedative effects.

General Adaptation Syndrome

A three-stage model describing the body's physical response to stress: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A psychological treatment that helps individuals understand and change thought patterns to manage anxiety.

Phobia

An irrational, intense fear of a specific object or situation that leads to avoidance behavior.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

A chronic disorder characterized by excessive worry about various aspects of life.

Selective Mutism

A childhood anxiety disorder where a child fails to speak in certain social situations despite having the ability to communicate.

Somatic Symptom Disorders

Psychological disorders manifested through physical symptoms without a clear medical cause.

SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)

A class of antidepressants commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders to help balance serotonin levels.

Defense Mechanisms

Unconscious strategies used to cope with anxiety and maintain emotional equilibrium.

Agoraphobia

An anxiety disorder characterized by fear and avoidance of places or situations where escape might be difficult.

Nursing Interventions

Strategies employed by nurses to manage and support patients experiencing anxiety.

Cultural Considerations

Awareness of how different cultures express and deal with anxiety, important for providing appropriate care.

Stress-Related Illness

Health problems that arise as a result of chronic stress and anxiety.