DSM-IVDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (ed. IV)
The DSM-IV, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (ed. IV), is used by psychologists to diagnose mental disorders such as those under the heading of anxiety disorder. KEEP IN MIND
It is important to keep in mind the biological considerations for anxiety disorders. Essentially, there is a disruption of the central nervous system. It is believed that there is underactivation of the serotoninergic system and overactivation of the noradrenergic system. Environmental stressors can also impact the degree of severity of an anxiety disorder as well. |
What does the DSM-IV say about Anxiety Disorders?According to the DSM-IV, an anxiety disorder can be identified as “A subjective experience of distress with accompanying disturbances of sleep, concentration, and social or occupational functioning are common symptoms in many of the anxiety disorders”.
In order to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, one must meet the criteria set by the DSM-IV for an anxiety disorder. Although, diagnosis can be difficult due to cormorbidity. According to Rowney, Hermida, & Malone, "Up to 60% of sufferers of GAD have a comorbid condition; panic disorder and major depressive disorder are the most common. Panic disorder is often comorbid with alcohol abuse, with an increased risk for suicidality. Agoraphobia is commonly connected to panic disorder, and comorbidity rates approach 40%." DSM-IV Anxiety Disorder CriteriaThe DSM-IV criteria for anxiety disorders is essentially a checklist of the signs and symptoms associated with this particular mental disorder. Check out the PowerPoint below to access the DSM-IV requirements for the various forms of anxiety disorder.
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Information for this page was taken from the following website:http://www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/medicalpubs/diseasemanagement/psychiatry-psychology/anxiety-disorder/