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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 8, 2026

Behavioral and Network Pharmacology-Based Analyses for the Traditional Mongolian Medicine Zadi-5 in a Rat Model of Depression

Behavioral and Network Pharmacology-Based Analyses for the Traditional Mongolian Medicine Zadi-5 in a Rat Model of Depression

Published on: February 24, 2023

Treating generalized anxiety disorder using complementary and alternative medicine.

Fujio McPherson¹, Leigh McGraw

¹Internal Medicine Clinic of the Madigan Army Medical Center, WA, USA. fmdc82@comcast.net

Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine

|August 29, 2013

Summary

This pilot study shows that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies focusing on self-care can effectively reduce anxiety in patients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Multimodal CAM interventions are feasible and well-tolerated by individuals with GAD.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: May 8, 2026

Behavioral and Network Pharmacology-Based Analyses for the Traditional Mongolian Medicine Zadi-5 in a Rat Model of Depression

Behavioral and Network Pharmacology-Based Analyses for the Traditional Mongolian Medicine Zadi-5 in a Rat Model of Depression

Published on: February 24, 2023

Area of Science:

Integrative Medicine
Mental Health Research
Behavioral Science

Background:

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is highly comorbid with other conditions, impacting daily life and necessitating holistic treatment approaches.
Women are predominantly affected by GAD, which is prevalent in primary care settings.
Current medical management of GAD often relies on traditional models, highlighting the need for alternative and self-care focused strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the effectiveness of a pilot program integrating multiple complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
To assess the feasibility and patient participation in a multimodal self-care focused intervention for GAD.
To explore the potential of CAM as an adjunct or alternative to conventional GAD treatments.

Main Methods:

A quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest design was employed with 37 adult volunteers diagnosed with GAD at a military treatment facility.
Participants underwent a 6-week program including acupuncture, yogic breathing, massage, journaling, nutrition counseling, and exercise.
Anxiety reduction was measured using the GAD-7 and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21); pain levels were also assessed.

Main Results:

A completion rate of 68% (n=25) was achieved, indicating high participant engagement.
Significant reductions in anxiety were observed post-intervention, as measured by both GAD-7 and DASS-21 scores.
Exploratory outcomes showed decreased anxiolytic medication use and reduced pain levels.

Conclusions:

Multimodal CAM interventions focusing on self-care behaviors are feasible and potentially effective for GAD management.
Patients with GAD demonstrate willingness to participate in comprehensive, multitherapy treatment options.
Findings support integrating CAM into existing cognitive-behavioral models for a broader conceptualization and treatment of GAD.