psych

Anxiety Disorders

Definition

• Characterized by excessive and persistent worry or fear that interferes with daily life
• Feelings of anxiety, apprehension, and fear are out of proportion to the actual danger or threat

Types of Anxiety Disorders

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
  • Excessive and persistent worry about everyday things
  • Difficulty controlling worries
  • Restlessness, fatigue, and concentration problems
• Panic Disorder
  • Recurring panic attacks (sudden feelings of intense fear or discomfort)
  • Fear of having another panic attack
  • Avoidance of places or situations where panic attacks have occurred
• Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
  • Fear of being judged or evaluated by others
  • Fear of being embarrassed or humiliated
  • Avoidance of social situations or events
• Specific Phobias
  • Irrational fear of specific objects, situations, or activities
  • Avoidance of the feared object or situation
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Recurring, intrusive thoughts (obsessions)
  • Repetitive behaviors (compulsions) to reduce anxiety
  • Significant distress or impairment in daily life

Causes and Risk Factors

• Genetics: Family history of anxiety disorders
• Brain Chemistry: Imbalance of neurotransmitters (e.g., serotonin, GABA)
• Environmental Factors: Trauma, stress, and learning experiences
• Personality Traits: Perfectionism, low self-esteem, and neuroticism

Symptoms and Diagnosis

• Physical Symptoms: Trembling, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and nausea
• Psychological Symptoms: Fear, anxiety, and avoidance behaviors
• Diagnostic Criteria: Meeting specific criteria for each anxiety disorder (e.g., DSM-5)

Treatment and Management

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors
• Medications: Antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and beta blockers
• Lifestyle Changes: Relaxation techniques, exercise, and stress management
• Support Groups: Sharing experiences and coping strategies with others