What treatments are commonly used for anxiety disorders?
Dec 01, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Commonly used treatments for anxiety disorders include cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, relaxation training, supportive psychotherapy, and group psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps patients identify and modify negative thought patterns, change irrational beliefs about anxiety-provoking events, and incorporates behavioral exercises to enhance their ability to cope with anxiety. The treatment course typically lasts 8 to 12 weeks.
Generally, common treatment methods for anxiety disorders include cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, relaxation training, supportive psychotherapy, and group psychotherapy. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is the first-line treatment for anxiety disorders. It helps patients identify and modify negative thought patterns and change irrational beliefs about anxiety-provoking events. Combined with behavioral techniques such as exposure therapy, it reduces avoidance behaviors and enhances the ability to cope with anxiety. The typical treatment course lasts 8–12 weeks.
2. Medication: Commonly used medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines. These drugs help alleviate anxiety and associated physical symptoms. SSRIs are suitable for long-term treatment, while benzodiazepines are typically used for short-term relief of acute anxiety. Dosage and duration must be determined under medical supervision; self-adjustment should be avoided.
3. Relaxation Training: Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation help reduce physical tension, lower sympathetic nervous system activity, and relieve symptoms like palpitations and muscle stiffness caused by anxiety. This can be used as a daily self-regulation practice, with 10–15 minutes recommended each day.
4. Supportive Psychotherapy: Therapists provide emotional support through active listening, empathy, and encouragement, helping patients clarify inner distress and strengthen confidence in managing their condition. They also guide patients in adjusting lifestyle habits, making this approach suitable for mild anxiety or as an adjunct to other treatments.
5. Group Psychotherapy: Patients with similar anxiety issues are brought together into a group setting, where, under the guidance of a therapist, they share experiences and feelings. Through peer support and interaction, individuals recognize the universality of their struggles, learn coping strategies from others, and enhance motivation for treatment.
During treatment, maintaining regular sleep patterns is essential—avoid staying up late and excessive caffeine intake. If taking medication, do not discontinue or adjust the dose without medical advice. Regular exercise, hobbies, and other activities can also help manage anxiety symptoms on a daily basis.
