Psychological Treatment - Generalised Anxiety Disorder

Psychological treatments include counselling, relaxation training, group work and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy [CBT]

In the early stages of Generalised Anxiety Disorder, simple methods of counselling are often effective. Some people with more severe or persistent Generalised Anxiety Disorder respond to counselling, but others need either CBT or medication.

Counselling

Counselling for people with Anxiety Disorders should emphasise a clear plan of management agreed with the person or relative, an explanation of the nature of the disorder and reassurance that any physical symptoms of anxiety are not caused by physical disease with provision of an information leaflet, problem solving or help to adjust to problems and advice to reduce the intake of caffeine as people with Anxiety Disorders are more sensitive to the anxiety effects of caffeine.

Relaxation training

If practiced regularly, relaxation can reduce anxiety in mild and moderate Generalised Anxiety Disorder. Practice in a group sometimes improves motivation and some people do better when relaxation is part of a programme of yoga exercises.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive therapy explores how thoughts can alter feelings and behaviour. Therapy consists of identifying automatic negative thought patterns such as the general concerns about the effect of being anxious [fear of fear], concerns about specific symptoms such as palpitations [fear of symptoms] and concerns that other people will react unfavourably to the person [fear of negative evaluation] and teaching the patient to recognise and challenge them. The aim is to enable the patient to counter the negative thoughts with alternative rational thoughts.

Cognitive therapy for Generalised Anxiety Disorder is combined with relaxation therapy.