Peer #1 sepulvedaThere are some tests and screening tools that can help to identify the correct diagnosis.
“TheGeneralized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire-IV and Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7item scale have performed well in identifying GAD in primary care, with good sensitivity
and specificity” (Kim et al., 2021). These screening tools in conjunction with the patient’s
assessment will help the clinician identify the correct diagnosis. Also, blood work to rule
out organic causes should be done as well, like thyroid panels, endocrine panel and CBC, to
name a few.
“The two main treatments for generalized anxiety disorder are cognitive behavioral
therapy and medications” (Munir & Takov, 2017). Cognitive behavioral therapy is the main
treatment for GAD, it includes teaching the patient new and coping thought patterns,
allowing them to be more effective in their daily life. For patients that don’t respond to CBT,
pharmacotherapy needs to be implemented. “Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) classes are the first-line agents to
treat” (Munir & Takov, 2017).
The standard guidelines I would use to assess and treat this patient should include the ones
proven with evidence-based practice. I will also adhere to the American Psychiatric
Association guidelines and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines.
Peer #2 Barbosa
What is your rationale for the diagnosis?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a condition that involves excessive worry, tension, and
apprehension. Anxiety is characterized by fear and activation of the parasympathetic response
that consists of a flight and fear response. To diagnose the signs of symptoms, which are
present most days of the week for at least six months and affect the patient’s daily life. “At this
stage, the anxiety disorder potentially starts affecting the instrumental activities of daily living
(IADL), which comprise activities like driving, cleaning, managing finances” (Sapra, Bhandari,
Sharma, & Lopp, 2020). The patient is experiencing signs and symptoms of anxiety, such as
fear, uneasiness of anticipated danger, negative thoughts, and inability to control worries.
Phobic Anxiety disorder and glossophobia.
The patient avoids talking or exposure in front of groups of numerous people for fear of being
ridiculed, judged, and criticized. “FoPS in adolescence and adulthood is associated with an
increased risk of developing generalized social anxiety disorder with further impairments