General Anxiety Disorder

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

When feelings of fear carries on for more than 6 months and feelings are disproportionate to cause of worry.

Question 2

Diagnosis and symptoms

Answer 2

Three of restlessness, easily fatigued, muscle tension, sleep disturbance and poor concentration.

Others include:

GI disturbance, palpitations, dry mouth, sweating, dizziness.

Question 3

Management

Answer 3

Assess severity using GAD7.

First line is self help CBT (Fear fighter program) with occasional guidance for 6 weeks. If functionally unimpaired

Second line:
If functionally impaired, prolonged CBT OR SSRI/SNRI.

Both have similar outcomes in terms of effects.

Question 4

When do you need to refer?

Answer 4

Evidence of self harm, neglect, substance abuse.

If pregnant woman.