Abstract:

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5) has 75 pages dedicated to Anxiety Disorders. This paper will explore the etiological and maintain factors that accompany anxiety and panic disorders and the ways the disorders are alike and ways in which they differ. The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) diagnostic criteria for these disorders will be discussed as will psychotropic medications commonly used in their treatment. Non-medication based forms of treatment will also be provided including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and systematic desensitization. It is not uncommon to see multiple comorbid conditions that often accompany anxiety and panic disorders including depression and substance use disorders and these are addressed as well. The material provides a basic understanding of these disorders for participants who are unfamiliar with them, and a deeper understanding of the disorders for participants who work more closely with them. Regardless of one’s previous knowledge about anxiety, phobias, and panic, all will gain a greater appreciation of where these disorders come from and what can be done to manage them clinically. For educators, this information will provide insights to help recognizes symptoms of these disorders in their students, to help make appropriate referrals, and to provide them with a deeper level of sensitivity and awareness when working with students experiencing one or more of these conditions.

Keywords:

Anxiety, Phobia, Panic Disorder, DSM-5, Comorbidity, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).