Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam

Substance Abuse Disorder frequently coexists with anxiety disorders, making it an important area of focus in both diagnosis and treatment. Many individuals with anxiety may use psychoactive substances as a way to self-medicate, seeking relief from their symptoms. This can lead to a cycle of dependence, as the individual may become reliant on substances to cope with anxiety, potentially exacerbating both conditions.

Substance Abuse Disorder and anxiety disorders share common risk factors, such as environmental stressors, genetic predispositions, and neurobiological vulnerabilities. When evaluating a patient with an anxiety disorder, it's critical to assess for potential substance use, as this can significantly impact treatment strategies and long-term outcomes. Addressing both disorders simultaneously can enhance recovery and improve the overall prognosis for the patient.

The other conditions listed, while they may overlap with anxiety in some instances, do not have as strong or direct a correlation. For example, bipolar disorder is characterized by mood fluctuations, attention deficit disorder relates to focus and impulsivity, and schizophrenia involves psychosis, which is typically distinct from anxiety disorders. Therefore, when considering common comorbidities with anxiety disorders, Substance Abuse Disorder stands out as the most prevalent and relevant coexisting condition.