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Treating generalized anxiety disorder with cognitive-behavioral therapy
1University of California San Diego, and VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92108, USA. ajlang@ucsd.edu
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|September 24, 2004
Summary
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) effectively treats generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) with or without medication. This review explores CBT principles, modifications, and its combined use with antidepressants for GAD management.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a prevalent mental health condition.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a recognized treatment modality for GAD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the core principles of CBT for GAD.
- To discuss recent advancements and modifications in CBT for GAD.
- To examine the combined efficacy of CBT and antidepressants in GAD treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on CBT for GAD.
- Analysis of cognitive restructuring, relaxation, worry exposure, behavior modification, and problem-solving techniques.
- Evaluation of studies combining CBT with anxiolytic or antidepressant medications.
Main Results:
- CBT is a successful standalone treatment for GAD.
- Integration of various CBT techniques enhances treatment efficacy.
- Concurrent use of CBT and antidepressants shows promise for managing GAD.
Conclusions:
- CBT offers a robust framework for treating GAD.
- Adaptations in CBT techniques may improve patient outcomes.
- Pharmacological augmentation with antidepressants can be a valuable strategy in GAD management.