PSYCH 3331 Chapter Notes - Chapter 0: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Panic Attack
19 Oct 2018
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Document Summary
We tend to minimize disorders, using them as nicknames for things ppl do, think, or say. A deviant, distressful, and dysfunctional pattern of thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that interferes w the ability to function in a healthy way. Anxiety disorders aren"t just caused by fear. Characterized by distressing, persistent anxiety, also by the dysfunctional behaviors that reduce that anxiety. At least 20% of all ppl will experience a diagnosable anxiety disorder. Sometimes accompanied by actions, which become compulsions. Often use compulsive, ritualistic behaviors to relieve intense/unbearable anxiety. Can be treated w psychotherapy and/or drugs. Continually tense + apprehensive, experiencing unfocused, negative, and out-of- control feelings. Cause of anxiety is often unknown to patients. Sudden episodes of intense dread or sudden fear that come w/out warning. Can have genetic predisposition or get them from a trigger. Common trigger is simply the fear of having another panic attack. Persistent, irrational fear of specific objects, activities, or situations.
