Panic Disorder and Phobias

Study Notes

A panic attack is an abrupt surge of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes and includes at least four symptoms.
Symptoms may include recurrent, unexpected panic attacks, persistent worry, and significant changes in behavior.
Panic disorder is more common in females than males.

A phobia is a marked fear or anxiety about a specific object or situation that is out of proportion to the actual danger posed.
Phobic objects or situations are actively avoided, and exposure to them provokes immediate fear or anxiety.
Fear, anxiety, and avoidance last for at least six months and cause significant distress or impairment.

Agoraphobia is a marked fear or anxiety about two or more of the following situations: using public transport, being in open or enclosed spaces, standing in line, or being outside of the home alone.
The individual fears or avoids these situations because of thoughts that escape might be difficult or help might not be available in the event of developing panic-like symptoms.
Agoraphobia is more common in females, with 75% of cases being female.

A specific phobia is an excessive, unreasonable, and persistent fear triggered by objects or situations.
Exposure to the trigger provokes intense anxiety, and the person recognizes that the fear is unrealistic.
Females are twice as susceptible to specific phobias as males.

Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive anxiety and worry about a number of events or activities for at least six months.
The individual finds it difficult to control the worry and experiences three or more symptoms, such as restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, or sleep disturbance.
Females are twice as likely as males to develop generalized anxiety disorder, and the prevalence increases with age, although younger adults experience greater severity of symptoms.

Social anxiety disorder is a marked fear or anxiety about one or more social situations in which the individual is exposed to possible scrutiny by others.
The individual fears that they will act in a way or show anxiety symptoms that will be negatively evaluated, leading to humiliation, embarrassment, or rejection.
Social anxiety disorder is the most common form of anxiety disorder, and females are much more likely to develop it than males.

Separation anxiety disorder is a developmentally inappropriate and excessive fear or anxiety concerning separation from those to whom the individual is attached.
Symptoms may include recurrent excessive distress, persistent worry, and reluctance to separate from major attachment figures.
Separation anxiety disorder lasts at least four weeks in children and adolescents and typically six months or more in adults.