Psychopharmacology
Possible etiologies
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
GAD or as it is known in full generalized anxiety disorder is a widespread anxiety complication that is characterized by worrying chronically, tension and nervousness. This is different from a phobia; which is characterized by fear of something specific or situation. GAD diffuses a feeling of dread and unease spanning all aspects of one's life. The anxiety is not as intensive as a panic attack but lasts much longer and consequently lowers the general quality of life over a longer time span of life. It does not matter whether you are conscious that your worrying is exaggerated or think that such worries protect you in some way, the consequence is the same. It is impossible for you to deliberately turn off your anxiety. They form an endless stream that flows on your mind (Segal, 2016). Our subject, Tom, is a case for GAD as his worrying is now affecting his quality of life on a large scale with anxiety and lack of sleep leading to mood swings and irritation.
Diagnosis
In order to assist Tom deal with generalized anxiety disorder, the health expert may
Conduct a physical examination to establish whether there is an underlying condition that may be connected to his anxiety condition.
Request for urine and blood tests if they suspect a medical condition
Ask Tom pointed questions regarding his medical history and symptoms
Employ psychological questions to determine diagnosis.
A lot of experts apply the criteria laid out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) developed by the American Psychiatric to investigate mental complications. The manual is also used by insurance companies in their compensation analysis processes.
The DSM-5 criteria used for GAD includes
Exaggerated anxiety experiences on most days of the week about numerous events for a period spanning a month or longer.
Difficulty and dealing with the worry tendencies
There is to be at least three of the symptoms listed below in adults and children fatigue, restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, sleep problems and concentration problems. Tom already has anxiety, sleeping issues and irritability, hence the following will be examined in his case:
If he has anxiety that makes him get significant distress, and his daily life is interrupted negatively
If he manifests anxiety that does not have any link with any medical condition such as post traumatic stress Disorder, a medical condition or even substance abuse
Treatment and Management
There are two important treatment approaches for GAD, i.e. medications and psychotherapy. It has also been shown that a combination of the two treatments produces better results. Unfortunately, it may be a trial and error process to unravel the most effective treatment for Tom in this case.
Psychotherapy
This is also commonly referred to as talk therapy. The process requires that Tom is involved with the psychotherapist to tone down his symptoms of anxiety. It is often effective for GAD. CBT; also commonly referred in its full form as cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective treatment for GAD. The therapy aims at guiding Tom back to the activities that have made Him anxious and consequently make him avoid them. The process is a gradual improvement that builds on earlier successes.
Medications
There are several medications that are used in their treatment of GAD. It is essential that Tom consults with his health care providers to settle on the most appropriate medications for his complications. This makes sure that due consideration is given to the side effects and effectiveness of the medications. Some of the first choice medications for the treatment of GAD include Antidepressants such as serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. In particular antidepressants include venlafaxine (Effexor XR) and paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva) duloxetine (Cymbalta), escitalopram (Lexapro). There is a chance that Tom's health provider may propose alternative antidepressants.
He is advised to avoid all forms of sedatives including alcohol.
Cut back on coffee intake
Embrace various relaxation techniques. He could do yoga, meditation or similar activities.
Eat healthy. Have plenty of fruits, fish, whole grains and vegetable in his diet. These may be linked to stress and anxiety reduction; there is need for more research on them though (Mayo Clinic, 2014).
In summary, Tom has manifested possible symptoms of GAD. He feels anxious and has sleeping problems. He cannot live his life because of these disturbing behavioral and routine changes (including lack of sleep). Tom is a potential case for GAD and, thus, is suitable for GAD examination.
Case 2
Possible...
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