Leader: Dr Ciaran Pier

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Clayton Second semester 2008 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

This unit distinguishes anxiety disorder from normal anxiety, stress and anxious personality. It also examines anxiety as a mixed disorder, i.e anxiety in combination with other psychiatric conditions such as depression and schizophrenia, and medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism. Specific anxiety disorders and their management are examined in the same detail. This includes panic attacks and phobia disorders (including agoraphobia and social phobia), obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, and generalised anxiety disorder. A number of drug and non drug therapies used in the treatment of these disorders are examined.

Objectives

On completion of this course candidates should be able to:

1. Identify and define the spectrum of anxiety disorders and to classify them according to definitions (DSM IV and ICD 10).
2. Appreciate those disorders which are common in general practice in some detail and to explore them in a patient centred, problem based fashion highlighting the peculiarities of the general practice context in their presentation.
3. Consider differential diagnosis of these disorders and the role of clinical investigation in clarification of diagnoses.
4. Apply therapeutic strategies (drug and non drug) used in the management of anxiety disorders and to appraise the efficacy of these interventions on the basis of current available evidence.
5. Display knowledge and skills in managing anxiety disorders alone, in conjunction with a psychiatrist, or as a part of a multidisciplinary team.
6. Evaluate the course including its impact on changing their approach to diagnosis and management.

Assessment

Essay (100%), Journal (P/F)