Regarding the statements about anxiety disorders:
1. Propensity to develop an anxiety disorder is heritable.
- This statement is TRUE. There is evidence to suggest that genetic factors play a role in the development of anxiety disorders. Research has shown that individuals with a family history of anxiety disorders may be more likely to experience these conditions themselves.
2. Most people with anxiety disorders recognize that their anxiety is out of proportion to any threat.
- This statement is FALSE. In reality, many individuals with anxiety disorders may struggle to recognize that their level of anxiety is excessive or disproportionate to the actual threat or situation. This lack of insight can contribute to the challenges they face in managing their symptoms.
3. Heightened anxiety usually appears when people are in their 40s.
- This statement is FALSE. While anxiety disorders can develop at any age, they often begin earlier in life, with symptoms typically emerging during childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. Onset in one's 40s is less common compared to other age groups.
4. People that have a panic attack are not automatically diagnosed with panic disorder.
- This statement is TRUE. Experiencing a panic attack does not automatically warrant a diagnosis of panic disorder. To receive a diagnosis of panic disorder, an individual must meet specific criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), including recurrent unexpected panic attacks and related behavioral changes.
5. People with panic disorder tend to have higher levels of orexins (wakefulness and vigilance) compared with others.
- This statement is FALSE. Panic disorder is not typically associated with higher levels of orexins. Rather, panic disorder is characterized by the presence of recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, along with persistent concerns about experiencing future attacks and the consequences of those attacks.
These clarifications provide a better understanding of the accuracy of each statement related to anxiety disorders.
