Treatment for general anxiety disorder (GAD) falls into two
categories: - Psychotherapy—This may include cognitive
behavioral therapy, and other forms of treatment like relaxation
techniques and biofeedback. Since psychotherapy is more
effective than medication, it is usually the first treatment
that is tried. Most patients benefit from a combination of
therapies. Medications have shown to work better than placebo.
Researchers have found that cognitive behavioral therapy is
effective in treating GAD. More research, though, needs to be
done for the other forms of therapy. Although medical care can
help most people with GAD, treatment success varies from person
to person. Some experience an improvement after only a few
months of treatment, while with others it may take a year or
more. Treatment can be complicated by having another condition
at the same time, such as substance abuse, depression, or other
anxiety disorders. Psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers,
and specially trained primary care providers