Psychiatry5 UKMLA questions
Social anxiety disorder — UKMLA Revision Notes
Social anxiety disorder is an important clinical condition in Psychiatry that is tested in the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (AKT). Medical students and doctors preparing for the UKMLA or PLAB 1 must understand the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, investigations, and evidence-based management of Social anxiety disorder as outlined in current NICE guidelines.
Key Facts
- Social anxiety disorder is a key condition on the GMC UKMLA Content Map
- Commonly tested in the Psychiatry section of the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test
- Understand the pathophysiology, clinical features, investigations, and management
- NICE guidelines provide the evidence base for management decisions
- Consider differential diagnoses and red flag symptoms in clinical scenarios
Investigations
- MSE (mental state exam)
- Collateral history
- Cognitive assessment (MMSE/MoCA)
- TFTs, FBC, U&E
- Urine drug screen
- CT/MRI head (if indicated)
Management
- Psychoeducation and support
- Psychological therapy (CBT, DBT)
- Pharmacotherapy as indicated
- Crisis plan and safety netting
- Psychiatry outpatient follow-up
- Social support and community resources