Which of the following symptoms is NOT a part of generalized anxiety disorder?

Which of the following symptoms is NOT a part of generalized anxiety disorder?

• A. Loss of energy
• B. Excessive worry over multiple issues
• C. Physical symptoms
• D. Fear of panic attacks

Answer: (D)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized primarily by excessive worry and anxiety about various aspects of life, such as work, health, or social interactions. The symptoms typically include persistent and excessive worry that is difficult to control, physical symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. Fear of panic attacks, while it can occur in various anxiety disorders, is not a defining feature of GAD. This symptom is more specifically associated with Panic Disorder, where individuals experience recurrent unexpected panic attacks and develop a fear of having additional attacks. Thus, the symptom of fearing panic attacks falls outside the criteria for GAD and is linked more closely to Panic Disorder, making it the correct response for this question. The other symptoms listed, such as loss of energy, excessive worry over multiple issues, and physical symptoms, align with the diagnostic criteria for GAD.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized primarily by excessive worry and anxiety about various aspects of life, such as work, health, or social interactions. The symptoms typically include persistent and excessive worry that is difficult to control, physical symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.

Fear of panic attacks, while it can occur in various anxiety disorders, is not a defining feature of GAD. This symptom is more specifically associated with Panic Disorder, where individuals experience recurrent unexpected panic attacks and develop a fear of having additional attacks.

Thus, the symptom of fearing panic attacks falls outside the criteria for GAD and is linked more closely to Panic Disorder, making it the correct response for this question. The other symptoms listed, such as loss of energy, excessive worry over multiple issues, and physical symptoms, align with the diagnostic criteria for GAD.