The nonpharmacologic treatment of generalized anxiety disorder

This article describes the latest nonpharmacologic therapies for generalized anxiety disorder. In addition, a review of available nonpharmacologic treatment outcome studies and studies that compare the efficacy of pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment is presented. The authors conclude that, of the nonpharmacologic therapies available, cognitive-behavioral therapy may be the preferred first-line treatment. Results of comparison studies have suggested that medication acts more quickly than does therapy in reducing symptoms, whereas therapy has more long-lasting effects. The authors recommend that further research be conducted in identifying the essential components of treatment and the most efficacious treatment combinations.