The Zung Self Rating Scale for anxiety is a method used for measuring levels of anxiety in patients who have anxiety-related symptoms. It was designed by William WK Zung. It is a self-administered test composed of 20 questions. Each question is scored on a scale of 1 to 4 with increasing anxiety level questions and 5 decreasing anxiety questions. All scales focus on the most common general anxiety disorders, coping with stress typically causes anxiety. There are two formats, self-evaluations and clinical evaluations. Scores should not yield a clinical diagnosis of depression but rather indicate levels of depressive symptoms that may be of clinical significance. Several studies have established the Zung Self Rating scale as a reliable and valid instrument for measuring depressive symptoms
The Zung Self Rating Scale for anxiety is known and recommended by physicians, psychologists, and other medical professionals around the world. However, it is not intended to be used for assessing or diagnosing children or teens. If a child or a teen is experiencing anxiety or depression that are outside the realm of normal adolescent difficulties, a mental health professional should be the one to evaluate and diagnose whether a problem really exists.
It is important to stress that self interpretation of the results of Zung Self Rating Scale for anxiety is not a viable option. The assessment itself can be administered in the privacy of one’s own home if so desired. Only a professional healthcare provider can accurately interpret the results. Any feelings of anxiety or depression should be discussed with and diagnosed by professionals to ensure that the proper care is received for any anxiety disorders. Bear in mind that everyone feels anxiety in certain situations. This is perfectly normal.
Generalized anxiety disorder symptoms involve fundamental biologic changes that result from a patient’s attempt to cope with and adapt to stress. Stress may be internal, external or both. This self rating scale has been used in a number of studies around the globe. Anxiety can be a psychiatric disorder due to a change in brain chemistry. Its symptoms are the same wherever one goes. Anxiety can be treated with medications most commonly benzodiazepines like Valium and Xanax. But self rating scale like Zung is believed to be of great help. Psychotherapy may also be helpful as well as behavioral therapy and biofeedback. In many medical illnesses, the patient does not have to tell the physician anything. The doctor only bases his diagnosis on a physical exam and lab tests. Zung Self Rating Scale for anxiety offers a number of advantages. They disclose information that only the patient can provide.
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