Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

A 32-year-old woman presents with excessive worry about multiple aspects of her life, including work, finances, and her health. She reports difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and difficulty sleeping for the past 6 months. What is the most likely diagnosis?

A) Panic disorder
B) Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
C) Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
D) Social anxiety disorder
E) Acute stress disorder

Correct Answer:

B) Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)

Explanation:

This patient has generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), characterized by excessive, uncontrollable worry lasting >6 months and associated with symptoms like muscle tension, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating.

• A) Panic disorder → Incorrect. Panic disorder involves episodic panic attacks, not constant worry.
• C) OCD → Incorrect. OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, not generalized worry.
• D) Social anxiety disorder → Incorrect. Social anxiety is fear of social situations and judgment by others.
• E) Acute stress disorder → Incorrect. Acute stress disorder occurs after a traumatic event and lasts <1 month.

Key Tips for PLAB 1:

✅ GAD = Excessive worry lasting >6 months.
✅ First-line treatment → SSRIs (e.g., sertraline) + CBT.
✅ Benzodiazepines are only used short-term for severe anxiety.