Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavior Therapy in Patients with Anxiety Disorders: A Case Series
Mr. D was a 23-year-old unmarried male, a graduate from an urban background, and employed. He presented with complaints of being tensed and anxious, getting ‘butterflies in his stomach’, worrying excessively, and having difficulty in communicating with others. He described himself as having always been shy. He began interacting with others only when he was in college. He had recently started working, after completing his graduation. He was placed in the marketing as well as accounts section, and was required to talk to and interact with his customers during which time he would experience anxiety. He would also begin to stammer or would feel his mind go blank. During his weekly presentations, he would feel anxious. Often he felt tongue-tied and stated that he was unable to speak. His fear was marked when he faced authority figures and generalized to friends or family members. He felt he was unable to explain himself clearly due to his anxiety. The patient also had several concerns over domestic issues, especially related his to eldest brother. The patient would be angered over his brother's behavior, but felt helpless, as his efforts at changing the behavior of his brother had been unsuccessful. He was referred with a diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Phobia, for further management.