Chapter 9: Anxiety Disorders | Clinical Psychopharmacology for Therapists (Podcast Style Summary)

In Chapter 9 of Clinical Psychopharmacology for Therapists, we explore anxiety disorders, examining their differential diagnosis, neurobiological basis, and treatment strategies. This episode discusses the ten major anxiety syndromes, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety, phobias, and substance-induced anxiety. We also explore the role of neurotransmitters, the fight-or-flight response, and how early trauma alters the brain’s stress regulation systems. Treatment approaches, including medication, psychotherapy, and exposure therapy, are also covered. Key Topics Covered: ✅ Types of anxiety disorders – GAD, panic disorder, phobias, OCD, PTSD, and more ✅ Anxiety vs. panic attacks – Key differences in onset, intensity, and duration ✅ Neurobiology of anxiety – The role of the amygdala, HPA axis, and neurotransmitters ✅ The fight-or-flight response – How stress hormones influence anxiety symptoms ✅ Cognitive models of anxiety – How thought patterns shape anxious responses ✅ Pharmacological treatments – Benzodiazepines, SSRIs, beta-blockers, and their effectiveness ✅ Psychotherapy & behavioral techniques – CBT, exposure therapy, relaxation training Glossary of Terms: 📌 Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – Chronic, excessive worry that affects daily life 📌 Panic Attack – A sudden, intense surge of fear with physical symptoms 📌 Agoraphobia – Fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult 📌 Obsessions & Compulsions – Repetitive, intrusive thoughts and behaviors in OCD 📌 Amygdala – The brain region responsible for processing fear and anxiety 📌 HPA Axis Dysregulation – How chronic stress disrupts the body’s stress response 📌 Beta-Blockers – Medications that reduce physiological symptoms of anxiety Clinical Psychopharmacology for Therapists Chapter 9 summary, types of anxiety disorders, panic disorder vs GAD, neurotransmitters and anxiety, fight-or-flight response, psychopharmacology for therapists, treating social anxiety, anxiety medication guide, cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety, how benzodiazepines work