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Essay / Clinical Assessment: Case Study
Table of ContentsClinical AssessmentDiagnosisTreatment PlanOutcomeConclusionAnxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders affecting individuals worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, anxiety disorders affect approximately 284 million people worldwide, making them a significant public health problem. In this clinical assessment case study, we will explore the assessment process, diagnosis, and treatment of a 30-year-old client, Sarah, who presents with symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Through a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan, we aim to provide Sarah with the support and interventions needed to improve her mental health and quality of life. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Clinical Assessment As part of the clinical assessment process, Sarah's presenting symptoms and medical history were carefully reviewed to determine the presence of an anxiety disorder. Sarah reported persistent feelings of worry, restlessness, and irritability present over the past six months. She also described experiencing difficulty concentrating and sleeping, as well as physical symptoms such as muscle tension and fatigue. These symptoms meet the diagnostic criteria for GAD outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which include excessive anxiety and worry about a variety of topics. In addition to an in-depth clinical interview, Sarah underwent a series of standardized assessment tools to further assess her symptoms and the severity of her anxiety. The Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) scale and the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) were administered to assess the level of anxiety and functional impairment experienced by Sarah. Results indicated moderate to severe levels of anxiety and impairment in daily functioning, confirming the presence of GAD. Diagnosis Based on the results of the clinical assessment and the diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5, Sarah was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. GAD is characterized by excessive worry and anxiety about a variety of events or activities, which is difficult to control. People with GAD often experience physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue and trouble sleeping, which can have a significant impact on their quality of life. Sarah's symptoms met the criteria for GAD, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and treatments. Treatment Plan Following the diagnosis of GAD, a comprehensive treatment plan was developed to treat Sarah's symptoms and improve her overall well-being. The treatment plan included a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to target both the psychological and physical symptoms of anxiety. Sarah was prescribed an SSRI antidepressant to help relieve her anxiety symptoms and improve her mood. In addition to medication, Sarah was referred to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to address the underlying thoughts and behaviors contributing to her anxiety. CBT is an evidence-based psychotherapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns and developing coping strategies to manage anxiety. Through weekly therapy sessions, Sarah learned relaxation, cognitive restructuring, and problem-solving techniques to better manage her anxiety symptoms. ResultAfter six :.