Differential Diagnosis
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): The patient's excessive worry, difficulty focusing, and feeling of being a burden are all characteristic symptoms of GAD. The recent end of a long-term relationship may have triggered or exacerbated these symptoms.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The patient's avoidance of going out and feeling exposed or vulnerable could be indicative of PTSD, especially if the recent breakup was traumatic.
- Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety: The patient's symptoms of anxiety and avoidance are occurring in response to a significant life stressor (the end of a long-term relationship), which is consistent with an adjustment disorder.
- Social Anxiety Disorder: The patient's avoidance of shopping alone and feeling exposed or vulnerable in public could be indicative of social anxiety disorder.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Major Depressive Disorder: While the patient's symptoms are primarily anxious, it is essential to rule out depression, especially given the recent significant life stressor. Depression can be deadly if left untreated, particularly if suicidal ideation is present.
- Panic Disorder: The patient's symptoms of tension and fatigue could be indicative of panic disorder, which can be debilitating and require prompt treatment.
- Substance-Induced Anxiety Disorder: It is crucial to assess for substance use, as it can contribute to or exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): While the patient's symptoms do not strongly suggest OCD, it is possible that the excessive worry and avoidance behaviors could be indicative of OCD, particularly if the patient has intrusive thoughts or compulsions.
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or Other Neurological Conditions: Although unlikely, it is essential to consider the possibility of an underlying neurological condition, such as TBI, that could be contributing to the patient's symptoms.