*GAD and OCD

Definition: GAD is characterized by chronic, diffuse (free-floating) anxiety that is not specifically tied to particular situations or objects.
Symptoms:
- Emotional symptoms:
  - Constant tension
  - Jitteriness
  - Restlessness
- Cognitive symptoms:
  - Excessive worrying
  - Difficulty controlling worry
- Physical symptoms:
  - Sweating
  - Upset stomach
  - Rapid heartbeat
Duration and Impact: The anxiety experienced lasts for months or longer, significantly interfering with daily functioning.
Prevalence:
- Lifetime prevalence in Canada is approximately 8.7%, with a higher incidence in women.
- Onset may occur in childhood or adolescence.
Differences from Other Disorders:
- Phobic Disorder: GAD involves generalized anxiety that is not tied to specific triggers, whereas phobic disorder features intense anxiety linked to particular phobias.
- Panic Disorder: GAD exhibits ongoing moderate anxiety; panic disorder involves sudden, acute, and intense anxiety attacks.
Concepts:
- Free-floating anxiety: Persistent worry that is nonspecific and not connected to particular situations.
- Autonomic hyperarousal: A state in which bodily systems, linked to stress, are activated (e.g., increased sweating, elevated heart rate).

Definition: Panic disorder is characterized by unexpected and recurrent panic attacks which involve acute episodes of intense anxiety.
Symptoms of panic attacks include:
- Heart palpitations
- Chest pain
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Shortness of breath
- Trembling
- Fear of dying
Occurrence: Panic attacks can manifest without a recognizable stimulus, leading to fear of future attacks, known as anticipatory anxiety.
Agoraphobia: This is the fear of being in open or public spaces, which often develops as a result of experiencing panic attacks.
Prevalence: The prevalence in Canada is estimated at 3.7%, with a noted higher incidence in women compared to men.

Definition: OCD consists of repetitive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and the performance of repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that are intended to reduce anxiety.
Components:
- Obsessions: These are persistent and intrusive thoughts or images, such as fears of contamination or doubts about safety.
- Compulsions: These are repetitive actions (e.g., washing, checking, counting) that are performed as a means to alleviate anxiety. Failure to perform these rituals can lead to severe distress.
Related Disorders: OCD can also include subtypes or related disorders, such as:
- Hoarding Disorder: Accumulation of items, leading to clutter and distress.
- Trichotillomania: Compulsive hair-pulling behavior.
- Excoriation: A disorder characterized by skin-picking.
Lifetime Prevalence: Around 1-2%, with a typical onset in early adulthood.

Neuroimaging Studies: Techniques such as fMRI, PET, and CT scans reveal abnormalities in several brain areas associated with OCD, including:
- Orbitofrontal Cortex: Involved in decision-making and social behavior.
- Caudate Nucleus: Plays a role in regulating movement and habit formation.
- Thalamus: Acts as a relay center connecting sensory input to the cortex.
- Limbic System: A collective of structures involved in emotion and motivation.
- MEMORY HACK: OCTaL Brain Loop
  - Orbitifrontal cortex- desicion-making= “OOPS Checker”
  - Caudate nucleus- habit formation= “conveyor belt” repeating complusions
  - Thalamus- relay station= “Traffic control”
  - Limbic System- emotions+anxiety= “Loud emotions”
Research Findings:
- Studies by Friedlander & Desrocher (2006) have indicated that dysfunction within the orbitofrontal-caudate-thalamic circuit contributes significantly to OCD.
- Overactivity in the prefrontal cortex and limbic system is linked to the emergence of intrusive thoughts.