Generalized anxiety disorder overview: Difference between revisions
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==Medical Therapy== | ==Medical Therapy== | ||
There are a variety of medications which can be used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, and they generally work well particularly in conjunction with [[psychotherapy]]. The first line treatments are the [[SSRI]] class of antidepressants such as [[fluoxetine]], [[paroxetine]], and [[escitalopram]]. Other antidepressants such as [[imipramine]], [[venlafaxine]], and [[buspirone]] may also be effective. [[Benzodiazepines]] provide quick, effective relief from anxiety, however must be prescribed with caution due to a high risk of abuse and dependence. | There are a variety of medications which can be used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, and they generally work well particularly in conjunction with [[psychotherapy]]. The first line treatments are the [[SSRI]] class of antidepressants such as [[fluoxetine]], [[paroxetine]], and [[escitalopram]]. Other antidepressants such as [[imipramine]], [[venlafaxine]], and [[buspirone]] may also be effective. [[Benzodiazepines]] provide quick, effective relief from anxiety, however must be prescribed with caution due to a high risk of abuse and dependence. | ||
==Psychotherapy== | |||
A [[psychological]] method of treatment for GAD is [[cognitive behavioral therapy]] (CBT), which involves a [[therapist]] working with the patient to understand how [[thought]]s and [[feeling]]s influence [[behavior]].<ref name="cbt">[http://www.babcp.com/babcp/what_is_CBT.htm "A Guide to Understanding Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapies"], British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. Accessed [[29 May]] [[2007]].</ref> The goal of the therapy is to change negative thought patterns that lead to the patient's anxiety, replacing them with positive, more realistic ones. Elements of the therapy include [[Exposure Therapy|exposure strategies]] to allow the patient to gradually confront their anxieties and feel more comfortable in anxiety-provoking situations, as well as to practice the skills they have learned. CBT can be used alone or in conjunction with [[medication]]. | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
Revision as of 00:01, 30 October 2012
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Generalized anxiety disorder Microchapters |
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Differentiating Generalized anxiety disorder from other Disorders |
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder that is characterized by excessive, uncontrollable and often irrational worry about everyday things, which is disproportionate to the actual source of worry. This excessive worry often interferes with daily functioning, as individuals suffering from GAD typically catastrophize, anticipate disaster, and are overly concerned about everyday matters such as health issues, money, family problems, or work difficulties.[1] They often exhibit a variety of physical symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, muscle aches, difficulty swallowing, trembling, twitching, irritability, sweating, and hot flashes. These symptoms must be consistent and on-going, persisting at least 6 months, for a formal diagnosis of GAD to be introduced. [1] Approximately 6.8 million American adults experience GAD, affecting about twice as many women as men.[2]
Differentiating Generalized anxiety disorder from other Disorders
The differential diagnosis in generalized anxiety disorder is similar to that of panic disorder. It is important to rule out drug-induced conditions. The mental status examination should take in consideration the possibility of schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depressive disorder, and both specific and social phobias.
Epidemiology and Demographics
Generalized anxiety disorder is relatively common and has a lifetime prevalence of about 4-7% in the general population. It is more common in women, and can develop in any age although it more commonly occurs in the third and fourth decade of life. Approximately one quarter of the patients with generalized anxiety disorder, will develop panic disorder.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing generalized anxiety disorder include family history, early adulthood, and a recent life stressor.
History and Symptoms
The criteria for generalized anxiety disorder include at least 6 months of excessive anxiety or worry, about a number of situations, which is difficult to control. The worry may also be associated with three of the following symptoms; restlessness. fatigue, irritability, muscle tension, poor sleep, and difficulty concentrating. There are several disorders that have a tendency to co-occur with generalized anxiety disorder. These include; major depressive disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, agoraphobia, substance abuse, irritable bowel syndrome and sleep disorders.
Medical Therapy
There are a variety of medications which can be used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, and they generally work well particularly in conjunction with psychotherapy. The first line treatments are the SSRI class of antidepressants such as fluoxetine, paroxetine, and escitalopram. Other antidepressants such as imipramine, venlafaxine, and buspirone may also be effective. Benzodiazepines provide quick, effective relief from anxiety, however must be prescribed with caution due to a high risk of abuse and dependence.
Psychotherapy
A psychological method of treatment for GAD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves a therapist working with the patient to understand how thoughts and feelings influence behavior.[3] The goal of the therapy is to change negative thought patterns that lead to the patient's anxiety, replacing them with positive, more realistic ones. Elements of the therapy include exposure strategies to allow the patient to gradually confront their anxieties and feel more comfortable in anxiety-provoking situations, as well as to practice the skills they have learned. CBT can be used alone or in conjunction with medication.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Anxiety Disorders", National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed 28 May 2008.
- ↑ "The Numbers Count", National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed 28 May 2007.
- ↑ "A Guide to Understanding Cognitive and Behavioural Psychotherapies", British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. Accessed 29 May 2007.