OCD Facts
What does OCD stand for?
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
In what populations is a GAD diagnosis most prevalent?
Women (particularly middle-aged)
What medication can be used for both OCD and GAD?
SSRI
What type of life event can trigger a change in brain activity (relating to OCD)?
Trauma, especially childhood trauma.
CBT is considered the first-line treatment for which disorder?
OCD and GAD (trick question)
What are some comorbidities for OCD?
Anxiety, Tic Disorder, Depression, first-generation relative with OCD
What is GAD often comorbid with?
Mood and other anxiety disorders.
What are 3 lifestyle strategies that could help with symptoms of GAD?
Structure/routine, a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, engaging in mindfulness and meaningful activities, journaling, and having strong relationships.
What parts of the brain are impacted by OCD?
Basal ganglia, thalamus, Orbitofrontal Cortex, Anterior Cingulate Cortex
Someone constantly worries that something bad will happen to one of their family members. Which disorder does this fall under?
GAD
What kind of obsessions are each gender more likely to have?
Male: religious or sexual obsessions, Female: contamination obsessions
Provide at least two examples of GAD symptoms:
Restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, or sleep disturbances - lasting for at least 6 months.
Which medication is prescribed for short-term use only in the treatment of GAD?
Benzodiazepines
Name three neurotransmitters involved in the regulation of anxiety that may be dysregulated in GAD:
Serotonin, GABA, norepinephrine (dopamine is also accepted)
Someone recognizes that their fears are excessive but spends excessive time trying to achieve certainty that something bad will not happen. Which disorder is more consistent with this pattern?
OCD