Stress and Coping: Anxiety Disorders

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to anxiety disorders, stress, and coping mechanisms.

Anxiety Disorders

The most common psychiatric illnesses that involve excessive anxiety and related behavioral disturbances interfering with daily activities.

Panic Disorder

Characterized by recurrent and unpredictable panic attacks, often accompanied by extreme fear, physical symptoms, and no specific trigger.

Phobia

An irrational, persistent fear of an object, activity, or situation that leads to avoidance.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Severe anxiety or fear in social situations, often resulting in embarrassment or humiliation.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Excessive anxiety and worry about various events, with three or more specific symptoms like restlessness and irritability.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

A chronic disorder marked by uncontrollable recurring thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

A mental health condition triggered by exposure to traumatic events, characterized by re-experiencing the trauma and avoidance behaviors.

Crisis

A time of intense difficulty or danger that requires immediate intervention and support.

Therapeutic Communication

An interactive dialogue that involves listening, understanding, and responding effectively to a patient's needs.

Ego Defense Mechanisms

Psychological strategies used unconsciously to protect oneself from anxiety and unacceptable thoughts or feelings.