Respiratory Training in the Treatment of Transdiagnostic Pathological Anxiety
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
Purpose of the Research: The primary aim of the proposed study is to conduct a randomized parallel-group 2-arm clinical trial investigating capnometry-guided respiratory intervention (CGRI) for pathological anxiety. CGRI aims to raise end-tidal CO2 levels thereby lowering hyperventilation-induced respiratory alkalosis and its associated fear-eliciting somatic reactions. Psycho-education about anxiety and its effects (PsyEd) will serve as a credible control comparator.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Clinically elevated anxiety as indicated by an eight or higher on the Overall Anxiety Severity and Impairment Scale (OASIS). 2. Meets DSM-5 criteria for one or more of the following anxiety or trauma-related disorders as their "primary" mental disorder: * Generalized Anxiety Disorder * Panic Disorder * Health Anxiety * Agoraphobia * Social Anxiety Disorder * Posttraumatic Stress Disorder * Acute Stress Disorder * Adjustment Disorder with primary anxious mood * Anxiety disorder not otherwise specified 3. No current use of psychotropic medications or stable on current medications for at least 6 weeks 4. Age 18+. 5. Able to arrange transportation to our laboratory for study appointments. 6. Fluent in English. Exclusion Criteria: 1. No history of medical conditions that would contraindicate participation in fear-provocation or respiratory challenges, including: * Cardiovascular or respiratory disorders * High blood pressure * Epilepsy * Strokes * Seizures * History o