Work

Examination of ataque de nervios and ataque de nervios like events in a diverse sample of adults with anxiety disorders

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Ataque de nervios (ataque) represents a cultural syndrome of paroxysmic symptoms that is described as an expression of distress among Latinx (gender-inclusive term for people of Latin-American descent). Some ataques are symptomatically similar to DSM-5-defined panic attacks, but also may include acute anger, grief, suicidal/violent behavior, or dissociation, and can last for hours or even days. Ataques usually occur after stressors and can trigger the mobilization of social support networks. Although described as a cultural syndrome, two studies showed that ataque-like events can occur in non-Latinx individuals. However, neither of the previous studies examined these events in psychiatric samples and both were hindered by methodological shortcomings. METHODS: The present study examined lifetime prevalence of ataques and ataque-like events in an ethnically/racially diverse sample of 245 adults with anxiety disorders to better understand acute reactions to stressors across cultures. RESULTS: Controlling for previously established correlates of ataque, results showed that Latinx were significantly more likely to report ever having an ataque (B = 1.41; P = 0.001; OR = 4.10 [95% CI: 1.72-9.80]), but events were reported by some non-Latinx African Americans and Whites. Anxiety sensitivity was also a significant predictor. Across the three groups, minor differences were found in symptoms, severity, or precipitants of attacks. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that Latinx are more likely to experience ataques but that stressors can trigger similar symptoms in non-Latinx. However, more research is needed to understand the meaning of these attacks within non-Latinx groups as the explanations, connotations, and help-seeking expectations regarding ataque are connected to Latinx cultures.

Source: Depression and Anxiety

DOI: 10.1002/da.22853

Authors: Ethan Moitra, Yovanska Duarte-Velez, Roberto Lewis-Fernández, Risa B. Weisberg, Martin B. Keller

Institutions: Brown University, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University, Boston University, VA Boston Healthcare System

Language: English

Topic: Anxiety, Depression, Psychometrics, Treatment, Cognitive Processes

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: Pfizer, National Institute of Mental Health