Best Course of Action for Anxiety?

Posted on November 7, 2018

A new meta-analysis from Oxford University have found evidence that suggest group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be the best form of psychotherapy for individuals diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

CBT was intended to resolve maladaptive cognitions and behavior by encouraging people to express and discuss their problems in a safe space. It is widely recommended for use in treating anxiety and depression disorders, as well as a host of other health diagnoses, because it helps clients to see their problems in a more manageable light.

The present study used randomized clinical trials with around 7000 participants and found that group CBT significantly reduced anxiety symptoms more than other types of psychotherapies, even with control conditions, and this effect held for both immediate and short-term follow up sessions.

The researchers surmised that the mentioned benefits of group CBT may be due to the additional elements of social stimuli and positive interactions within the group, allowing clients to be gradually exposed to social experiences in a safe and controlled setting. In addition, benefits obtained from CBT was found to be statistically significant from placebo groups or no-treatment groups (on waiting list) in terms of improving on patients’ quality of life and personal functioning.

This study is useful in proving the benefits associated with using group CBT for anxiety disorders and would go a long way in aiding mental health professionals in deciding which treatment plans to offer mental health patients.

However, even with the results from this study, the validity could be improved with additional research into the long-term effects and outcomes for patients from diverse populations and backgrounds.


Category(s):Anxiety, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Depression, Social Anxiety / Phobia

Source material from Medical Xpress