Which of the following sets of symptoms is most consistent with a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder? A 39-year-old man who reports:

Question

Which of the following sets of symptoms is most consistent with a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder?  A 39-year-old man who reports:

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

11ecba2d_0d8d_6e66_a3bf_3d179b2b32d8_MD0008_00 Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry about a range of topics. Individuals with GAD anticipate disastrous outcomes for daily events and activities, and find it difficult to control their worry. Muscle tension, difficulty concentrating or sleeping, and feeling restless, fatigued, or irritable are all common symptoms of GAD. Symptoms of widespread worry (ie, anxiety about health, finances, and family), along with multiple physical symptoms (ie, difficulty sleeping, muscle tension, fatigue), are most consistent with a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder. (Choice A) Depression is characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness; lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities; changes in appetite; changes in sleep; fatigue; low self-worth or guilt; cognitive difficulties; and/or thoughts about death or suicidal ideation. Difficulty sleeping, fatigue, low appetite, and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities are most consistent with a diagnosis of depression, not GAD. (Choice B) Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by repeated, uncontrollable, and unpredictable panic attacks, which are overwhelming surges of anxiety that peak within minutes. Repeated surges of overwhelming anxiety with racing heart, difficulty breathing, sweating, and a fear of losing one's mind are most consistent with a diagnosis of panic disorder, not GAD. (Choice C) Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can arise after exposure to trauma (ie, an event that resulted or almost resulted in death, sexual violence, or serious injury). Hyperarousal (eg, exaggerated startle response), intrusive symptoms (eg, nightmares), avoidance of reminders of the trauma (eg, certain situations), and negative thoughts and moods are most consistent with a diagnosis of PTSD, not GAD. Educational objective: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about a range of events. People with GAD may experience muscle tension; difficulty concentrating or sleeping; and restlessness, fatigue, or irritability.

Which of the Following Sets of Symptoms Is Most Consistent