Prior To Beginning Work On This Assignment, Review Chapter 5 ✓ Solved

Prior to beginning work on this assignment, review Chapter 5

Prior to beginning work on this assignment, review Chapter 5 in the course text, and watch The DSM-5 screencast on how to access and use this resource and how to cite and reference the DSM-5. Use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) to support your responses. In addition, view the videos Somatic Symptom Disorders Part II: Core Features and Treatment and What is Illness Anxiety Disorder? This assignment is an analysis of a selected psychological disorder associated with somatic symptom and related disorders.

The disorder you select this week will be used to complete the Week 4 assignment. To successfully complete this writing assignment, select a psychological disorder for comprehensive analysis from the following list: Illness anxiety disorder, Somatic symptom disorder, Conversion disorder. Your selection should be based on your personal or professional experience or your own academic or personal interest in the topic. Be sure to use current terminology from the DSM-5.

Use this outline to determine the appropriate APA headings to be applied to your paper. Include the following in your paper:

• Overview of the diagnosis
• Explanation of at least one theory of etiology (causes) of the disorder
• Explanation of the associated factors in development of the disorder (genetic, environmental, familial, lifestyle)
• An analysis of the treatment options for clients using appropriate terminology and citations
• Discussion of treatment options of the disorder
• Discussion of possible options to reduce frequency or severity of symptoms
• Evaluation of how this disorder affects the patient and those in their social community
• Conclusion

The emphasis of your paper should be on the pathological aspects of the disorder you select. Research your topic and obtain a minimum of two scholarly and/or peer-reviewed sources published within the last five years. Be sure to cite these sources accurately in your paper and include them on your references page according to APA. Write your assignment, supporting each of the required areas of evaluation.

Your paper must be a minimum of five double-spaced pages in length and formatted according to APA Style. Include a separate title page with the title of the paper, student’s name, course name and number, instructor’s name, and date submitted. Must utilize academic voice, include an introduction and conclusion paragraph with a clear thesis statement, and must include APA headings.

Must use at least two scholarly or peer-reviewed sources published within the last five years in addition to the course text or other course materials. Document any information used from sources in APA Style and include a separate references page that is formatted according to APA Style.

Paper For Above Instructions

Title: An Analysis of Illness Anxiety Disorder

Illness Anxiety Disorder (IAD) is a psychological condition recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), affecting individuals who are preoccupied with the belief that they are suffering from a serious illness despite the lack of significant medical evidence. This paper will offer an overview of IAD, examine its etiology, discuss its associated factors, analyze treatment options, and evaluate its impact on patients and their communities.

Overview of Illness Anxiety Disorder

Illness Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive worry about having a serious illness. Individuals with IAD often misinterpret bodily sensations and trivial symptoms as indicators of severe medical conditions, leading to high levels of anxiety and distress (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Unlike Somatic Symptom Disorder, where the concern is about actual symptoms, individuals with IAD experience an intense fear of having an illness, often resulting in significant impairment in functioning.

Etiology of Illness Anxiety Disorder

The etiology of IAD is complex and often involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Cognitive-behavioral theories suggest that individuals with IAD may possess maladaptive beliefs about health and illness that lead to distorted interpretations of bodily sensations (Kooiman et al., 2020). Genetic predispositions may also play a role, as family history of anxiety disorders can contribute to the development of IAD (Parker et al., 2021).

Associated Factors in Development

Several factors contribute to the development of IAD. These include genetic predispositions, negative life events, and familial influences. For example, individuals exposed to high levels of stress or trauma may be more likely to develop anxiety disorders, including IAD (Barlow, 2014). Additionally, a familial predisposition to anxiety may exacerbate the risk, as children of anxious parents are more likely to adopt similar cognitive patterns (Hofmann et al., 2012). Environmental factors such as chronic illness in a family member or a past medical crisis may also trigger symptoms of IAD in susceptible individuals.

Treatment Options for Illness Anxiety Disorder

Treatment for Illness Anxiety Disorder typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as a first-line approach. CBT addresses distorted patterns of thinking and helps patients learn coping mechanisms to manage anxiety (Hawton et al., 2017). Psychoeducation is also critical, informing patients about the nature of their anxiety and reassuring them about their health. Furthermore, in some cases, pharmacotherapy with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be effective in relieving symptoms of anxiety, although it is often recommended to combine medication with psychotherapy (Blanco et al., 2013).

Options to Reduce Frequency or Severity of Symptoms

To reduce the frequency or severity of symptoms associated with IAD, therapies focusing on mindfulness and relaxation techniques can be beneficial. These practices help patients focus on the present moment, reducing the tendency to catastrophize about the future (Kabat-Zinn, 2013). Regular physical exercise and a healthy lifestyle can also play a significant role in managing anxiety symptoms (Craft & Perna, 2004).

Impact on Patients and Social Community

Illness Anxiety Disorder significantly affects not only the patients but also their families and social communities. The chronic anxiety experienced by individuals with IAD can lead to social isolation and increased healthcare costs due to frequent medical consultations (Thompson et al., 2018). Additionally, families may experience stress and frustration trying to provide support to their loved ones, often feeling overwhelmed by the constant need for reassurance and understanding.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Illness Anxiety Disorder is a debilitating condition that involves excessive worry about having a serious illness without substantial medical evidence. Understanding its etiology, treatment options, and the societal impact is essential for improving patient outcomes. By leveraging resources such as CBT and developing supportive community systems, individuals with IAD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: Author.
• Barlow, D. H. (2014). Anxiety and its disorders: The nature and treatment of anxiety and panic. Guilford Publications.
• Blanco, C., et al. (2013). Pharmacotherapy for patients with anxiety disorders: A review. Biological Psychiatry, 73(9), 712-719.
• Craft, L. L., & Perna, F. M. (2004). The Benefits of Exercise for the Clinically Depressed. Primary Care Companion to The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 6(3), 104-111.
• Hawton, K., et al. (2017). Cognitive behavioral therapy for depression in adults. British Medical Journal, 356, j135.
• Hofmann, S. G., et al. (2012). The Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Meta-Analysis. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 30(4), 427-440.
• Kabat-Zinn, J. (2013). Full Catastrophe Living: Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness. Delacorte Press.
• Kooiman, K., et al. (2020). The Role of Cognitive Biases in the Development and Maintenance of Illness Anxiety Disorder. Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 74, 102281.
• Parker, G., et al. (2021). Genetic basis of mood disorders: Advances in molecular genetics. Journal of Affective Disorders, 282, 91-99.
• Thompson, N. M., et al. (2018). Psychological stress and health care utilization in individuals with illness anxiety disorder. Psychosomatic Medicine, 80(5), 478-485.