[Guest]

My mother recently revealed to me that for the past few months (after a number of stressful years) she has been suffering from random boughts of accute anxiety - similar to having just been in a disaster - for no specific reason. She was prescribed anti-depressants by the doctor but, as these did not seem to relieve symptoms, he has made an appointment for her to see a psychiatrist It sounds to me as if she is suffering from General Anxiety Disorder - would that also be your opinion? If so, could you suggest any form of treatment that we could carry out at home as the psychiatrist is booked up for quite a while. I am studying psychology at A Level and wondered whether to give her some word association tasks to try and uncover potential unconscious causes of anxiety or am I being stupid?! Please suggest something as i'm very worried.

[Guest]

She could see her regular doctor if it will take too long and get something to tide her over. GAD and Panic are two likely possibilities. I would suggest that you read our sections. I would not try and do any psychotherapy or uncovering with your own mother. It will not work and could conceivably make matters worse.
[quote] My mother recently revealed to me that for the past few months (after a number of stressful years) she has been suffering from random boughts of accute anxiety - similar to having just been in a disaster - for no specific reason. She was prescribed anti-depressants by the doctor but, as these did not seem to relieve symptoms, he has made an appointment for her to see a psychiatrist... [/quote]