Mood Disorders - GAD

Question 1

DSM Criteria GAD

Answer 1

Excessive, uncontrollable anxiety and worry more days than not for at least 6 months, about various events/activities (multiple areas)
Difficulty controlling the worry
At least 3 (or more) of the following symptoms (1 for children) - WATCHERS

Question 2

What does the W in WATCHERS stand for?

Answer 2

Worry — excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not for at least 6 months

Question 3

Mnemonic for Anxiety

Answer 3

WATCHERS

Question 3

What does the A in WATCHERS stand for?

Answer 3

Arousal — feeling keyed up or on edge (also restlessness)

Question 4

What does the T in WATCHERS stand for?

Answer 4

Tension — muscle tension

Question 5

What does the C in WATCHERS stand for?

Answer 5

Concentration problems — difficulty concentrating or mind going blank

Question 6

What does the H in WATCHERS stand for?

Answer 6

Hypervigilance / fatigue — easily fatigued, alert to threats

Question 7

What does the E in WATCHERS stand for?

Answer 7

Energy loss — tied to fatigue and overall exhaustion from chronic anxiety

Question 8

What does the R in WATCHERS stand for?

Answer 8

Restlessness — or feeling on edge

Question 9

What does the S in WATCHERS stand for?

Answer 9

Sleep disturbance — difficulty falling or staying asleep, or restless sleep

Question 10

How long must symptoms be present for a GAD diagnosis?

Answer 10

At least 6 months, more days than not

Question 11

How many symptoms (from WATCHERS) are needed for GAD diagnosis in adults?

Answer 11

At least 3 symptoms, plus excessive worry. In children, only 1 symptom is required.