Managing Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Primary Care

Although primary care clinicians desire to provide the most effective care for patients with generalized anxiety disorder, a lack of knowledge, fragmented services, and busy practice settings are substantial barriers to effective treatment. Without early recognition and treatment, patients may suffer psychosocial and occupational impairment and increased risk for suicide. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to assist primary care clinicians in initiating rapid assessment and treatment, as well understanding the guidelines for psychiatric referral to achieve the most optimal patient outcomes and bridge the gap between primary care and mental health services. (C) 2012 American College of Nurse Practitioners