Anxiety Disorders: Understanding Generalized Anxiety and Panic Disorders

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What is the primary function of anxiety in normal levels?

To induce muscle tension

To hinder daily functioning

To reduce sleep quality

To help individuals plan for the future (correct)

What distinguishes anxiety disorders from normal anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are more common

Anxiety disorders are easier to control

Anxiety disorders only affect sleep patterns

Anxiety disorders involve overwhelming and hard to control anxiety (correct)

Which of the following is a characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder?

Worrying only about catastrophic events

Experiencing no muscle tension

Having no difficulty concentrating

Worrying excessively about a number of different things (correct)

What is the duration of excessive anxiety and worry required for a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder?

At least six months Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of generalized anxiety disorder?

Fatigue Signup and view all the answers

What is the category in the DSM-5-TR that includes generalized anxiety disorder?

Anxiety Disorders Signup and view all the answers

How do individuals with generalized anxiety disorder typically respond to their worries?

They find it difficult or impossible to turn off their worries Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of generalized anxiety disorder on sleep patterns?

Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep Signup and view all the answers

How does the level of worry in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder compare to others?

It is more excessive than others Signup and view all the answers

What is the frequency of anxiety and worry required for a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder?

More days than not for a good proportion of the day Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of the population has met the criteria for Generalized Anxiety Disorder at some point in their lifetime?

5.7% Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

They are more sensitive and vigilant towards possible threats. Signup and view all the answers

What may be a reason why people with GAD worry excessively?

To gain control over unpredictable experiences. Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible consequence of worrying about catastrophic outcomes?

It takes them away from important things they should be paying attention to in the moment. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of the catastrophic outcomes people with GAD worry about?

They are very unlikely to happen. Signup and view all the answers

What can reinforce the act of worrying in individuals with GAD?

When the catastrophic event does not materialize. Signup and view all the answers

Why do people with GAD often miss out on many enjoyable events in their lives?

Because they are preoccupied with worries about the events. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential reason why people with GAD worry as a way to avoid feeling distressed?

Because worrying distracts them from the emotional symptoms of anxiety. Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of excessive 'What if?' thinking in individuals with GAD?

It takes them away from important things they should be paying attention to in the moment. Signup and view all the answers

What can happen when an individual with GAD attributes a positive outcome to their worrying?

They learn that their worrying is effective in controlling outcomes. Signup and view all the answers