Question 1

If someone has a panic attack when they see a spider, do they have Panic Disorder?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. This is an 'expected' or 'cued' panic attack, triggered by a specific phobic stimulus. This would be a symptom of a Specific Phobia (Arachnophobia), not Panic Disorder. The key criterion for Panic Disorder is the presence of recurrent *unexpected* panic attacks, which occur without an obvious trigger, along with persistent worry about having more attacks.

Question 2

Is worrying a lot the same as having GAD?

Accepted Answer

No. While everyone worries, GAD involves worry that is excessive, pervasive, and very difficult to control. For a diagnosis, the worry must be present for most days over at least six months and be accompanied by at least three other physical or cognitive symptoms, such as muscle tension or fatigue. Crucially, it must cause clinically significant distress or impairment in daily functioning, which is far beyond the scope of everyday worrying.

Question 3

Are the DSM-5 and ICD-11 criteria for anxiety disorders identical?

Accepted Answer

They are very similar and have become more aligned over time, but they are not identical. For example, the DSM-5 requires 6 months of symptoms for GAD, whereas the ICD-11 is less specific, stating symptoms should be present for 'at least several months'. The DSM-5 requires three associated symptoms for GAD, while the ICD-11 only requires one. For your exam, be aware both manuals exist, but most research you will study uses DSM criteria.

Diagnostic criteria for anxiety disorders and fear-related disorders

What you need to know

Diagnostic criteria for anxiety disorders and fear-related disorders