. Chapter 16 Anxiety, Obsessive-Compulsive, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders

Anxiety Disorders a group of conditions where the primary symptoms are anxiety or defenses against anxiety. They are in a state of intense apprehension, uneasiness, uncertainty, or fear.

Phobias A person experiences sudden episodes of intense dread. Must be an irrational fear. Avoiding object, activity, or situation. Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia) – shyness to the extreme, intense fear of being scrutinized by others, avoid potentially embarrassing social situations Agoraphobia – fear or avoidance of situations in which escape might be difficult or help unavailable when panic strikes. (panic attack) Phobia List

Generalized Anxiety Disorder GAD Pathological worry continually. Symptoms persistence 6 months or more Jittery, agitated, trembling, sleep-deprived, fidgeting Free-floating anxiety Depression may accompany this disorder May not be able to identify and therefore deal with or avoid the causes. Physical problems – high blood pressure

Panic Disorder An anxiety disorder marked by a minutes-long episode of intense dread in which a person experiences terror and accompanying chest pain, choking and other frightening sensations. Anxiety tornado Panic attack – can be minutes long

Obsessive-compulsive disorder Persistent unwanted thoughts (obsessions) cause someone to feel the need (compulsion) to engage in a particular action, which persistently interferes with daily living and causes distress. Obsession – thoughts Compulsion - behaviors Obsession about dirt and germs may lead to compulsive hand washing. Classified as its own category – not classified under anxiety disorders

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder a.k.a. PTSD Recurring haunting memories, nightmares Social withdrawal Jumpy anxiety Insomnia Memories of the event cause anxiety.