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Using the Threat Probability Task to Assess Anxiety and Fear During Uncertain and Certain Threat
Published on: September 12, 2014
Anxiety, for better or for worse
Andrea Herrera-Solís1, Alejandro Hernández-Lira2, Alejandra E Ruiz-Contreras3
1Laboratorio de Efectos Terapéuticos de los Cannabinoides, Departamento de Biología Molecular e Histocompatibilidad, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México.
Abstract:
Anxiety is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders. Although people may feel anxiety when they suffer from a pathological condition, it is also a disorder in itself. However, under normal conditions, anxiety facilitates adaptation. This review discusses the adaptive function of anxiety and delves into the brain system, structures and neurotransmitters, involved in its regulation. This review also addresses psychosocial factors that can alter this regulatory system, leading to maladaptive anxiety. Additionally, this review discusses new pharmacological options with potential to alleviate pathological anxiety, as well as psychotherapeutic advances for behavioral management of this disorder.
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