Anxiety

Question 1

How long must symptoms go on for to be diagnosed with a Generalised Anxiety Disorder?

Answer 1

6 months (anxiety, worry or apprehension)
usually acute on chronic

Question 2

What is the NICE 3 step guide to GAD Tx?

Answer 2

step 1: assessment, diagnosis & education
step 2: psychological therapy + guided self-help
step 3: pharmacological Tx or CBT

Question 3

What is the pharmacological treatment options for anxiety?

Answer 3

• sertraline (off license for GAD but works)
• escitalopram (SSRI) or Venlafaxine (SNRI)
• Benzo for an acute flare and short period of time
• Beta blocker for physical symptoms

Question 4

What are the different types of anxiety?

Answer 4

• GAD
• social
• phobia specific
• panic disorder
• agoraphobia

Question 5

What are some potential medical causes of anxiety?

Answer 5

• hyperthyroidism
• cardiac disease
• medication induced - salbutamol, theophylline, steroids, anti-Ds, caffeine

Question 6

What defines panic disorder?

Answer 6

recurrent spontaneous panic attacks without an obvious trigger
associated with depression, substance abuse and agoraphobia

Question 7

What are the diagnostic criteria for being diagnosed with panic disorder?

Answer 7

panic attacks with one of more of:

• persistent concern for having a panic attack
• persistent concern for the consequences of having panic attacks
• maladaptive behaviours that

Question 8

Define social anxiety.

Answer 8

> 6 months anxiety in social situations - fear of being judged

Question 9

Some features of social anxiety?

Answer 9

• anticipatory anxiety
• blushing, sweating, difficulty speaking
• fear of embarrassment
• avoidance of triggers