GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER (GAD)James’ case

James who is a doctor suffering from generalized anxiety disorder. At 31 years of age and living in New York, he is unemployed because of his constant anxiety, even at the thought of working. He now lives with his parents off a small trust fund set up for him by an uncle. Although he was an overachiever throughout his academic career, James is having a hard time keeping it together, while his parents are somewhat supportive but disappointed with his medical career.

DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA

a. His brain was not functioning rightb. He was experiencing an unnatural balance of change within his various neurotransmittersc. Anxiousd. Easily irritatede. Distracted f. Quite tense.g. He also complained of headaches, body aches and pains.h. Always feeling tired.

CAUSES

Environmental Influences:

• Work. This would affect James immensely because his whole life has been based around his becoming a doctor. Even his father wanted him to follow in his footsteps and have a prestigious career.• School. Although James did not experience anxieties until after he graduated from medical school, I'm sure he still felt anxious with tests and schoolwork.• Relationships. This would be dealing with James' parents as they are somewhat supportive but disappointed that his career has not been progressing. He also lost his relationship with his girlfriend of three years because of the stress.• Health. Because James is dealing with this disorder, his health is rapidly declining. He is having headaches, body aches and pains and is always tired. His emotional health is affected as well with feelings of laziness and worthlessness.• Financial. James is realizing that if he cannot work, he cannot earn a paycheck. He is living off a small trust fund set up for him by his great uncle, but that won't last forever. All of these things are considered threats and can cause James to worry excessively which is interfering with his life.

TREATMENT/THERAPY

Bio-medical Therapy

Medication – Since James has generalized anxiety disorder, which has been called a 'free-floating' disorder because of his constant worrying and nervousness, as stated earlier, he would need a medication that treats low levels of GABA.

- Benzodiazepine (minor tranquilizers) is the most frequently prescribed.The drug is used for short-term relief and can be hard to stop taking because of dependence issues

- Xanax, which is shown to enhance the function of GABA in the brain. It also slows down the central nervous system.

Cognitive Behavioral Treatment

One session may include showing James pictures of things that may make him anxious and then teaching him how to relax deeply to fight his tension.

Source: http://www.theravive.com/research/Generalized-Anxiety-Disorder-Case-Study%3A-James