Generalised Anxiety Disorder

Question 1

What is the defintion of GAD?

Answer 1

chronic, excessive worry for at least 6 months that causes distress or impairment

Question 2

What is needed for diagnosis?

Answer 2

at least three key symptoms out of a possible six are required to make a diagnosis of GAD in adults according to the Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, fifth edition, (DSM-5) criteri

Question 3

What are the key symptoms?

Answer 3

1. restlessness or nervousness
2. being easily fatigued
3. poor concentration
4. irritability
5. muscle tension
6. and/or sleep disturbance

Question 4

How many key symptoms are needed for GAD diagnosis in children?

Answer 4

one key symptoms

Question 5

How is GAD a diagnosis of exclusion?

Answer 5

physical health conditions, other mental health disorders, and medications or other substances should be ruled out as a primary cause

Question 6

What does treatment of GAD involve?

Answer 6

primarily with psychotherapy (cognitive behavioural therapy or cognitive therapy), serotonergic antidepressants, or a combination of these approaches

Question 7

What is RF for GAD?

Answer 7

1. family history of anxiety
2. female sex
3. increased stress
4. history of physical or emotional trauma, and comorbid depression, substance misuse/dependence, or other anxiety disorder

Question 8

What are symptoms of GAD?

Answer 8

1. Excessive worry for at least 6 months
2. Anxiety not confined to another mental health disorder
3. Anxiety not due to medication or substance e.g. asthma medications

Question 9

What is DDx for GAD?

Answer 9

1. Panic disorder
2. Social phobia
3. OCD
4. PTSD

Question 10

What is Mx for GAD?

Answer 10

1st line CBT
1st line: SSRI
2nd line: tricyclic antidepressant or antipsychotic or benzodiazepine or pregabalin