Notes on Anxiety Disorders and Psychotherapy

Introduction to Anxiety Disorders

• Families may have a genetic predisposition to anxiety disorders.
• Specific phobias are a type of anxiety disorder.
• Both biological and psychological factors contribute to the development of anxiety disorders.

Psychotherapy

• Defined as interactions with trained professionals aimed at improving psychological well-being.
• Involves various therapeutic approaches, including psychoanalytic therapy.

Psychoanalytic Therapy

• Originates from the work of Sigmund Freud.
• Focuses on exploring unconscious thoughts and feelings.
• The therapist, often referred to as a psychoanalyst, encourages deeper exploration of the patient's psyche.
• Recognizes that individuals may live under the influence of unconscious conflicts.
• Therapy is considered a long-term relationship focusing on continuous self-actualization.

Approaches to Therapy

• Some therapies aim for quick results, typically within 20 sessions or less.
• Involves working towards specific goals (e.g., relaxation through services like massages).
• Concerns raised about relying on patients to medicate themselves without resolving underlying issues.

Cognitive Therapy

• Addresses cognitive patterns in patients, particularly useful in sports psychology.
• Athletes often encounter discouraging thoughts, such as "I can't do this" during training.
• Aims to teach more adaptive thinking and behaviors, especially for those with depression or anxiety.

Biological Aspects of Treatment

• Treatments may involve pharmacological aids that impact neurotransmitter systems.
• Focus on monoamine oxidase and its role in breaking down neurotransmitters affecting mood and anxiety.
• Cautions regarding potential side effects of medications prescribed for anxiety disorders.

Treatment for Specific Phobias

• Effective treatment must be tailored to the individual's psychological landscape.
• Instead of immediate exposure to feared stimuli (e.g., large dogs), a structured approach involving an exposure hierarchy is developed collaboratively with the therapist.
• Emphasizes progressive exposure rather than simple confrontation with fears, which can lead to increased anxiety rather than resolution.