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PSYC 350 > Exam 2 > Flashcards

Exam 2 Flashcards

1
Q

What are the core symptoms of a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

A

High anxiety & excessive worry for ≥ 6 months

restlessness, fatigue, insomnia, irritability, concentration difficulties, muscle tension, sweating, nausea, heart palpitations

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2
Q

What is the co-morbidity rate of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) with other disorders?

A

90% of individuals with GAD meet DSM criteria for another disorder, with a major overlap in depression

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3
Q

How does uncertainty intolerance manifest in individuals with GAD?

A

Individuals with GAD have a heightened sensitivity to uncertain situations, leading to increased anxiety and worry

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4
Q

What role does the anterior cingulate cortex play in GAD?

A

The anterior cingulate cortex is involved in error detection, and its heightened activity is associated with the increased vigilance and anxiety seen in GAD

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5
Q

What is the sex ratio for GAD?

A

The sex ratio for GAD is 2:1, with females being twice as likely to be affected as males. This ratio is similar to other anxiety disorders

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6
Q

What are the basic facts about the use of SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines in treating GAD?

A

SSRIs and SNRIs are commonly prescribed for GAD and help reduce anxiety symptoms by affecting neurotransmitter levels. Benzodiazepines may be used for short-term relief of severe anxiety but have a risk of dependence and should be used cautiously

  • Average 40-60% short-term reduction for all the above. Benzos have a very high relapse
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7
Q

What are the basics of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for GAD?

A

CBT for GAD involves identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, developing coping strategies, and practicing relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety

imaginal exposure

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8
Q

How does exercise benefit mental health and cognitive function?

A

Exercise increases levels of serotonin, dopamine, and BDNF, leading to cognitive enhancement, anti-aging effects, and improved mental health

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9
Q

How do Omega-3 fatty acids help in reducing anxiety

A

Omega-3s, particularly EPA, have anti-anxiety effects by reducing inflammation. The balance between Omega-6 and Omega-3 is crucial for minimizing inflammation. also is an anti-depressant

  • enhances brain cell’s ability to communicate with each other

Flax, chia, walnut

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10
Q

What is the role of BDNF in brain health and what suppresses it?

A

BDNF acts as a major brain growth hormone, promoting the formation of new memories and repairing brain damage. High levels of cortisol can suppress BDNF

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11
Q

How does magnesium affect neural signaling and anxiety?

A

Magnesium regulates neural signaling by modulating glutamate levels. A deficiency in magnesium, often due to poor dietary quality, can lead to increased anxiety

Mg is important for regulating how active those circuits are
- majority of neurons use glutamate for ramping up activity
- not enough Mg = glutamate circuits don’t work properly and we get a runaway stress response

It also reduces anxiety, enhances sleep, laxative

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12
Q

What are the benefits of sunlight exposure for mental health?

A

Sunlight exposure boosts serotonin and dopamine levels and helps regulate the body clock through SCN of the hypothalamus

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13
Q

How does diaphragmatic breathing benefit mental health

A

Diaphragmatic breathing stimulates the vagus nerve, activating the parasympathetic nervous system and promoting relaxation

When stressed, anxious, or insecure, muscles are contracted and cannot relax to breath properly

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14
Q

What are the benefits of mindfulness meditation for anxiety?

A

Mindfulness meditation helps reduce anxiety by promoting relaxation, enhancing self-awareness, and improving emotional regulation

if added to CBT = 75% response

Notice things and let them go - be present in the moment

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15
Q

How do probiotics benefit mental health through the gut-brain axis?

A

Probiotics support beneficial microbes in the gut, which thrive on soluble fiber and positively affect brain function and mental health

Increased mental clarity and motivation

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16
Q

How does exposure to nature benefit mental health?

A

Exposure to nature, such as breathing in m vaccae, can have psychotropic effects similar to a psych drug, improving mental health and well-being

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17
Q

What are the effects of CBD and THC on mental health?

A

CBD and THC can have various effects on mental health, including reducing anxiety, promoting relaxation, and enhancing mood

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18
Q

How does sleep deprivation affect mental health?

A

Sleep deprivation can negatively impact mental health by impairing cognitive function, increasing anxiety, and disrupting emotional regulation

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19
Q

What are the toxic effects of chronic cortisol on mental health?

A

Chronic cortisol can have toxic effects, including the suppression of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor). This suppression can lead to decreased brain plasticity, impaired memory formation, and increased vulnerability to anxiety and depression

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20
Q

What are the symptoms of a panic attack?

A

Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks (false alarms) lasting one month or longer (out of the blue)

A discrete period of intense fear or discomfort, in which four (or more) of the following symptoms developed abruptly and reached a peak within 10 minutes
- palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rate
- sweating
- trembling or shaking
- sensations of shortness of breath or smothering
- feeling of choking
- chest pain or discomfort
- nausea or abdominal distress
- feeling dizzy, unsteady, lightheaded, or faint (changes acidity of blood and causes lightheadedness)
- derealization (feelings of unreality) or depersonalization (being detached from oneself)
- Umbrella term: dissociation
- fear of losing control or going crazy
- fear of dying
- parasthesia (numbness or tingling sensations)
- chills or hot flashes

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21
Q

What are dissociation symptoms in panic disorder?

A

Dissociation symptoms include depersonalization (feeling detached from oneself) and derealization (feeling that the world is not real)

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22
Q

What is the difference between a panic attack and a panic disorder?

A

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear, while panic disorder is characterized by recurrent panic attacks and persistent concern about having more attacks or their consequences

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23
Q

What is the prevalence of panic attacks and panic disorder?

A

About 1/3 of the population will experience a panic attack, and the lifetime prevalence of panic disorder is approximately 5%

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24
Q

What is the role of lactate (lactic acid) infusion and CO2 breathing in panic disorder, and how does blood pH affect it?

A

Lactate infusion and CO2 breathing can induce panic attacks by lowering blood pH (increasing acidity), which triggers panic symptoms and lightheadedness

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25
What is Barlow's CBT model of panic?
Barlow's CBT model involves recognizing interoceptive cues (physical sensations) and addressing catastrophic thoughts that amplify panic symptoms Stress or environmental triggers (agoraphobia) ---------> interoceptive cues -----------> Catastrophic thoughts ----------> Panic (false alarm) Sometimes it skips the catastrophic thoughts (1/4 of people have nocturnal panic - waking up out of sleep panicking
26
What is the efficacy of medications for panic disorder?
Medications such as SSRIs, SNRIs, imipramine, and benzodiazepines are effective in reducing panic symptoms, with SSRIs and SNRIs being preferred for long-term treatment SSRI/SNRI: ~50% acute efficacy (~30% for placebo) with a high rate of relapse
27
What is the role of placebo effects in panic disorder treatment?
Placebo effects show significant improvement in symptoms compared to "waitlist/no treatment" controls, highlighting the psychological impact of perceived treatment Placebo outcomes are better than no treatment
28
How effective is CBT for panic disorder?
CBT is highly effective in treating panic disorder by helping individuals identify and challenge their fears and learn coping strategies
29
What is the purpose of exposure to interoceptive cues in treating panic disorder?
Exposure to interoceptive cues, such as hyperventilation, helps individuals reduce their fear response to physical sensations associated with panic attacks
30
What is the sex ratio for panic disorder and what are the hormonal explanations?
The sex ratio for panic disorder is 2:1, with females being twice as likely to be affected as males. Hormonal explanations include: - **Testosterone**: An anti-anxiety/antidepressant hormone with an average 20:1 M/F ratio. It lowers perception of threat, reduces empathy, and boosts risk-taking. There is evidence of a population-wide decline in testosterone in recent decades - **Allopregnanolone**: Derived from progesterone, it has anti-anxiety effects by targeting GABA receptors. It can be impacted by the menstrual cycle, post-partum period, menopause, and birth control
31
How is agoraphobia linked with panic disorder?
Agoraphobia is often linked with panic disorder, as individuals may develop a fear of places or situations where escape might be difficult or help unavailable during a panic attack
32
What is a graded exposure hierarchy and how is it used for phobias?
A graded exposure hierarchy is a therapeutic technique used to treat phobias. It involves gradually exposing individuals to feared situations or objects in a controlled and systematic manner, starting with the least anxiety-provoking and progressing to the most anxiety-provoking
33
What is the short-term vs. long-term efficacy of benzodiazepines in treating panic and GAD?
Benzodiazepines are effective in the short-term treatment of panic and GAD but are less effective for long-term use due to potential tolerance, dependence, and side effects
34
How do benzodiazepines work in the brain?
Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the activity of GABA, the brain's major inhibitory neurotransmitter at GABA receptors, leading to a calming effect
35
What are some commonly prescribed benzodiazepines?
Xanax (alprazolam), Ativan (lorazepam), Klonopin (clonazepam), and Valium (diazepam)
36
What are the major side effects of benzodiazepines?
drowsiness, dizziness, impaired coordination, memory problems, and increased risk of falls and accidents
37
How can benzodiazepines affect sleep and mood?
They can suppress slow-wave sleep, trigger depression, and lead to mood changes
38
What is the addiction potential of benzodiazepines
High potential for addiction and dependence, and abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal syndrome
39
What is the evidence for benzodiazepines causing permanent alteration of GABA receptors?
There's evidence suggesting that long-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to permanent alterations of GABA receptors, affecting brain function
40
How do benzodiazepines impact dementia risk?
Long-term use of benzodiazepines is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia
41
What percentage of benzodiazepine prescriptions are written by non-psychiatrists?
Approximately 85%
42
What are major SSRIs used for treatment?
Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, and Lexapro
43
What are the major SNRIs used for treatment?
Effexor, Pristiq, Cymbalta
44
How do SSRIs and SNRIs work?
These drugs inhibit the synaptic re-uptake of serotonin, with downstream effects that take 2-6 weeks to manifest. They do not directly increase serotonin levels
45
What is emotional numbing in the context of antidepressant use?
Emotional numbing refers to a reduced ability to feel emotions, which can be a side effect of SSRIs and SNRIs
46
What is anorgasmia and how is it related to antidepressant use?
Anorgasmia is the inability to achieve orgasm, which can be a sexual side effect of SSRIs and SNRIs
47
What is activation syndrome and how common is it among antidepressant users?
Activation syndrome occurs in 2-5% of users and includes symptoms such as increased restlessness, agitation, and anxiety upon starting SSRIs or SNRIs
48
How do SSRIs and SNRIs affect the risk of suicidality in younger individuals?
Associated with an increased risk of suicidality in individuals below the age of 25
49
What are withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping SSRIs and SNRIs?
Withdrawal symptoms can include "zaps" (electric shock-like sensations), dizziness, headaches, and irritability
50
Are SSRIs and SNRIs more effective for anxiety or depression?
Generally more effective for treating anxiety than depression
51
What are the features of the "performance-linked" subtype of Social Anxiety Disorder, and how are beta-blockers used?
The "performance-linked" subtype involves intense fear and anxiety in performance situations, such as public speaking. Beta-blockers can be used to manage physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and trembling
52
What childhood characteristics are often seen in adults with Social Anxiety Disorder?
exhibited shyness and inhibited behavior as children
53
What are some other risk factors for developing Social Anxiety Disorder?
Traumatic social experiences, overprotective parenting, low self-esteem, and chronic stress
54
How does the heritability of Social Anxiety Disorder differ between childhood and adulthood?
Social Anxiety Disorder has a higher heritability in childhood than in adult-onset cases, indicating a stronger genetic influence during early development
55
What is the role of serotonin in Social Anxiety Disorder?
Serotonin plays a key role in promoting social and affiliative drive, and imbalances in serotonin levels can contribute to social anxiety symptoms
56
How is CBT used to treat Social Anxiety Disorder?
It involves exposure to socially awkward and embarrassing situations, helping individuals gradually reduce their fear and improve their social skills
57
What does iatrogenic mean?
refers to any adverse condition or complication caused by medical treatment or advice, rather than by the underlying disease itself
58
What does homeostasis mean?
the process by which an organism maintains a stable internal environment despite external changes, ensuring optimal functioning
59
What does etiology mean?
Refers to the study of the causes or origins of a disease or condition
60
What is activation syndrome?
2-5% of the people who take an antidepressant/SSRIs/SNRIs get really agitated and experience intense, negative emotion that can turn aggressive
61
What is the central feature of GAD?
Uncertainty Intolerance - not being able to know something (not knowing whether or not you're getting laid off) - greater our perception of control, the lower our anxiety
62
Drug tolerance and benzos
easier to develop drug tolerance on benzos

PSYC 350 (3 decks)

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