Mental Health Flashcards
What is generalised anxiety disorder?
A long term condition that causes a feeling of unease, worry or fear which can be mild or severe
Anxiety can be a symptoms of other conditions including…
PTSD
Panic disorder
Phobias
Social anxiety disorder
What risk factors can contribute to the development of generalised anxiety disorder? (6)
- Genetics
- History of stress or traumatic events
- Painful long term health conditions
- History of drug or alcohol misuse
- Women
- Age 35 to 55
What are some psychological symptoms of anxiety?
Restlessness/worry
Sense of fear
Constantly on edge
Irritability
Having issues concentrating or sleeping
What are some physical symptoms of anixety?
Dizziness
Tiredness
Palpitations
Shortness of breath
Stomachache
What conditions should be ruled out when diagnosing anxiety?
Anaemia
Hypothyroidism
What are the three forms of treatment for GAD?
Self -help
Talking therapies
Medication
What medications may be used in the treatment of anxiety?
SSRIs
SNRIs
Pregabalin
Benzodiazepines
What are some lifestyle changes that could have a positive effect on mental health?
Regular exercise (150 minutes moderate exercise a week)
Stop smoking
Avoid caffeine
Reduce alcohol intake
What is the purpose of cognitive behavioural therapy?
Mechanism to help control or manage anxiety but changing negative or unhelpful thoughts and behaviours
What SSRIs may be used in anxiety?
Sertraline (1st line), escitalopram, paroxetine
What are some common side effects of SSRIs?
Feeling agitated
Will feel worse for the first 4 weeks of taking before feeling better
Nausea and vomiting
Loss of sex drive
Excessive sweating
HYPONATRAEMIA
When would SNRIs be given to a person with anxiety?
