Anxiety Vs Ptsd

Question 1

What is a key difference in onset between anxiety disorders and PTSD?

Answer 1

PTSD has a known traumatic event as the trigger; anxiety disorders may develop gradually or without a single clear event.

Question 2

What are the hallmark symptoms of PTSD?

Answer 2

Intrusion (flashbacks, nightmares), avoidance, negative mood/thoughts, and hyperarousal (e.g., startle response).

Question 3

How long must symptoms persist for a PTSD diagnosis?

Answer 3

More than 1 month following the traumatic event.

Question 4

How long must symptoms persist for a GAD diagnosis?

Answer 4

Excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not for at least 6 months.

Question 5

What differentiates panic disorder from PTSD?

Answer 5

Panic disorder involves unexpected panic attacks with physical symptoms; PTSD is trauma-related with flashbacks and avoidance.

Question 6

Which disorder is more likely to involve hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response?

Answer 6

PTSD.

Question 7

What intervention is commonly used for both PTSD and anxiety?

Answer 7

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), including exposure techniques and cognitive restructuring.

Question 8

Can PTSD be diagnosed without reporting fear during the trauma?

Answer 8

Yes. DSM-5-TR removed the requirement of responding with fear, helplessness, or horror.

Question 9

What distinguishes Adjustment Disorder from PTSD?

Answer 9

Adjustment Disorder involves emotional/behavioral symptoms within 3 months of a stressor and does not meet full PTSD criteria.