OCD

Anxiety and Depression

  • Coexisting conditions: Depression (dysthymic disorder, pervasive depressive disorder) often accompanies anxiety.

Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) vs. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

  • OCPD: Focus on perfection, process-oriented, may not complete tasks.
  • OCD: Characterized by obsessions (persistent anxious thoughts) and compulsions (ritualistic actions to relieve anxiety).

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

  • Occurs after exposure to trauma (physical abuse, accidents, military combat).
  • Symptoms include anxiety, re-experiencing trauma, defensive behaviors.
  • Types of PTSD: Acute, chronic, and delayed onset.

Treatment for PTSD

  • Comprehensive treatment including crisis counseling and exposure therapy.
  • Use of medications: SSRIs, benzodiazepines for short-term.
  • Group therapy and support systems are crucial for recovery.

Acute Stress Disorder

  • Symptoms occur within one month of trauma but are short-term and involve dissociation.

Anxiety Disorders Overview

  • Major theories: Biological (neurotransmitters), genetic, psychosocial, behavioral responses.
  • Treatment includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications like SSRIs, benzodiazepines, and lifestyle changes.

Nursing Process in Managing Anxiety

  • Assess subjective and objective signs of distress.
  • Implement active listening, relaxation techniques, and promote safety.
  • Assist with problem-solving without directly solving issues for the patient.

Medications for Anxiety and OCD

  • Benzodiazepines: Short-term management; risk of addiction.
  • SSRIs: First choice for anxiety disorders, minimal side effects; examples include Lexapro and Zoloft.
  • Buspar: Long-term anxiety treatment.
  • Propranolol: Effective for performance anxiety.

Importance of Support

  • Building therapeutic relationships is essential for treatment success.
  • Group therapy can aid in processing trauma and sharing experiences.