Abstract

LOPEZ DE LA PARRA, María del Pilar Marjan et al. Quality of life and disability in generalized anxiety disorder. Salud Ment [online]. 2014, vol.37, n.6, pp.509-516. ISSN 0185-3325.

Objective To determine which clinical factors predict disability and poor quality of life in patients with generalized anxiety disorder. Methodology This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean. A linear regression analysis was used to determine how demographic factors predict clinical disability and poor quality of life. Results We found that the presence of a family history of anxiety disorders, as well as higher scores on the Hamilton Depression Scale, predict a lower quality of life; unlike an older age which predicts a higher quality of life in these patients. Higher levels of disability were associated with males, a younger age, comorbid Axis II disorders, the presence of a family history of anxiety disorders, and higher scores on the Hamilton Depression Scale. Conclusions Depressive symptoms and a family history of anxiety are associated with a poor quality of life. Knowing which factors predict the quality of life and disability in patients may guide us towards a more comprehensive diagnosis and treatment approach. This means will not just treat symptoms, but will seek patients' functional recovery, which leads in turn to a better quality of life.

Keywords : Generalized anxiety disorder; quality of life; disability.

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