A CLOSER EXAMINATION OF MUSCLE TENSION IN GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER (GAD)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive anxiety and persistent worry that can be overwhelming and uncontrollable. Among the hallmark features of this disorder are the myriad somatic symptoms that often accompany the psychological distress. These symptoms include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and disrupted sleep patterns. Among these, muscle tension stands out […]

WHY DO CERTAIN PEOPLE EXPERIENCE HIGH ANXIETY IN SOCIAL SETTINGS?

In the realm of human interactions, social encounters can trigger varying degrees of nervousness. This phenomenon often puzzles us, especially when considering individuals with seemingly poor social skills or harboring negative self-evaluations. Shedding light on this complexity is the self-presentation theory—a conceptual framework striving to unveil why certain people experience heightened anxiety in social settings. […]

DO SAFETY BEHAVIORS IN SOCIAL ANXIETY SABOTAGE EXPOSURE THERAPY?

In the mid-90s, a study highlighted the nuances of exposure therapy in the context of social phobia, shedding light on the concept of “safety behaviors.” These behaviors act as crutches, allowing individuals to engage in exposure while mitigating excessive anxiety. Take, for instance, someone with a fear of conversing with strangers; they might opt to […]