Anxiety disorders

Question 1

What are the clinical features of PTSD

Answer 1

1) Re-experiencing:
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares

2) Avoidance:
- People/places/things associated with traumatic event

3) Hyperarousal:
- Hypervigilance for threat
- Exaggerated startle response
- Sleep problems

4) Emotional numbing

Question 2

How long do symptoms have to be present for a formal diagnosis of PTSD?

Answer 2

One month

Question 3

Describe the management of PTSD

Answer 3

• First line = EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing) therapy
• Medications: SSRI or SNRI (not routinely used first line)

Question 4

Describe the management of OCD

Answer 4

• ERP (exposure and response prevention)

- SSRIs

Question 5

What is meant by ‘conversion disorder’?

What can cause conversion disorder?

Answer 5

Loss of motor or sensory function

Can be caused by stress