Facts & Stats & Treatment
Subtypes
Signs and Symptoms
Risk Factors/Causes
100

Why is psychoeducation important in treatment for anxiety?

It helps somebody build a better understanding of anxiety and their diagnosis. 

100

What is the most common anxiety disorder in older adults?

Generalized anxiety disorder

100

What is the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder is excessive, persistent anxiety that impairs the ability to function.


100

What type of siblings are commonly used in research to test genetic factors?

Twins

200

What is typical treatment for anxiety disorders? It is a combination of WHAT and WHAT?

Combination of psychotherapy and medication

200

What is selective mutism?

Person loses ability to speak

200

What is the "Fight or Flight" response?

The fight-or-flight response is a physiological reaction that occurs in response to a perceived harmful event, attack, or threat to survival.
200

What is the female to male ration of individuals with anxiety disorders?

2:1 female to male ratio - females are 2x more likely to have an anxiety disorder

300

What percentage/fraction of adults suffer at least one anxiety disorder at some point in their lives?

1/3

300

What is agoraphobia?

Intense fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable, particularly in unfamiliar environments. 

300

Can someone who is experiencing anxiety receive an anxiety disorder diagnosis if the anxiety is a direct result of another medical condition, substance use, or psychiatric condition?

No

300

What are two examples of childhood adversities that may play a role in the development of an anxiety disorder?

Parental alcoholism, divorce, bullying

400

How many people suffer from panic attacks?

1/3 of people, but only 10% of those have panic disorder

400

What is thought to be the "most debilitating" anxiety disorder?

Social anxiety disorder

400

What are common symptoms of panic attacks? Provide at least 3

Rapid heart rate, shaking, difficulty breathing, nausea, sense of impending doom or danger, sweating, chest pain

400

How much more likely is somebody to develop an anxiety disorder with a direct relative affected by an anxiety disorder compared to someone with no affected relatives?

Up to 6x in some

500

What two types of medications are considered the "First two-line agents" for an individual with an anxiety disorder?

SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) and SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)

500

List at least 3 symptoms needed for most days to receive a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder.

Restlessness, fatiguability, poor concentration, irritability, muscle tensions, poor sleep
500

According to the DSM-5, how long do symptoms need to last in order to meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder?

6 months OR 1 month for panic disorder/PTSD/selective anxiety

500

What percent of hereditary factors play a role in developing and anxiety disorder? What about the environment percentage? (Hint: total should equal 100%)

30% hereditary, 70% environmental

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