Common symptoms of anxiety disorders include chest pains, shortness of breath, and other physical symptoms that may be mistaken for a heart attack or other physical ailment. These manifestations often prompt patients to seek care from their primary care providers or emergency departments. Once it is determined that there is no organic basis for these symptoms, patients are typically referred to a psychiatric mental health practitioner for anxiolytic therapy.
TO PREPARE
ยท As you examine the patient case study consider how you might assess and treat patients presenting with anxiety disorders.
- Reflect on the psychopharmacologic treatments you might recommend for the assessment and treatment of patients requiring anxiolytic therapy.
THE SCENARIO/CASE STUDY: A Middle-Aged Caucasian Man With Anxiety.