Publisher's Synopsis
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in the community. According to the recent National Comorbidity Survey, as many as 17% of Americans suffered from an anxiety disorder in the past year. The annual prevalence of the most common conditions include social phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Such disorders appear in a variety of ways and many patients seek treatment for the somatic symptoms (sweating, dizziness, shortness of breath) rather than the underlying disorder. Because of their efficacy, safety, and tolerability, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have been widely accepted as first line treatment for depression. Since demonstrating efficacy in panic disorder, some of these agents are now being subjected to controlled studies in social phobia, posttraumatic stress disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Early results indicate their potential across the spectrum of depression and anxiety disorders. Dr. Sheehan describes the prevalence and diagnostic criteria for the various anxiety disorders. He discusses the frequency of comorbidity across the spectrum and its impact on treatment options and the growing body of evidence supporting the use of SSRIs in the treatment of anxiety disorders.
