Cost anxiety disorders, social costs

Data from the ECA were used in an analysis of the social costs of anxiety disorders (Leon et al, 1995). Financial dependence was high among anxious individuals, particularly those with panic disorders (unemployment among men was 60%). Chronic... 

An Australian study compared medical utilization and costs in patients with panic disorder, those with social anxiety disorder, and a control group (Rees et al, 1998). Almost half of the panic disorder patients had seen a primary-care physician more than seven times over a 6-month period, compared with 7% of the social phobic patients and none of the control group. The mean costs were A 150, A 60 and A 20 respectively. The patients with panic disorder were treated with antidepressants (39%), benzodiazepines (15%), relaxants (12%), beta-blockers (7%) and other medication (7%). Twenty per cent received no medication. Patients with panic... 

The anxiety disorders are common and surprisingly disabling conditions. Studies on the health economics of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder document the cost to the individual and to society. Attention has focused on the major psychiatric disorders such as depression, schizophrenia and the dementias. Studies suggest that many anxiety disorders are of early onset and too often chronic they are quite common and impose a heavy burden on society. More studies will be needed to discern the fine grain in the survey material and to identify more precisely the location and type of societal costs. These factors will vary from country to country, from district to district, between men and women and between various age groups. 

Leon AC, Portera L, Weissman MM (1995). The social costs of anxiety disorders. Br J Psychiatry 166 (suppl. 27), 19-22. 

Montgomery SA. Escitalopram-treatment shows better cost-effectiveness and improved quality of life versus placebo in social anxiety disorder... 

Rees CS, Richards JC, Smith LM (1998). Medical utilisation and costs in panic disorder a comparison with social phobia. J Anxiety Disordl2A2 -55. 

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