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Cologne – People with generalized anxiety disorder are likely to benefit from digital applications based on cognitive behavioral therapy, at least in the short term. This is the conclusion reached by an interdisciplinary team of scientists led by Health Austria.

The Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) commissioned the research as part of the Medicine Topic Check. The starting point for the work was a request from a citizen.

Generalized anxiety disorder is a common anxiety disorder. It is estimated that around five percent of all people will receive this diagnosis in their lifetime. Women are affected twice as often as men.

What is characteristic of generalized anxiety disorder is that those affected live in constant, excessive fear. Those affected suffer from being unable to control their fears and worries and this significantly affects their everyday professional and private lives.

The scientists evaluated the results of 20 studies that examined the use of apps for generalized anxiety disorder. They found evidence of positive effects on disease symptoms, quality of life and everyday functions.

However, current studies do not allow any conclusions to be drawn about long-term or undesirable effects. Likewise, there are no studies that examine the use of apps among young people aged 14 and over.

Whether apps are better or worse than face-to-face cognitive behavioral therapy cannot be determined from the studies evaluated. This would require studies that directly compare these interventions with each other. According to the working group, no such studies are available.

Psychological and psychotherapeutic treatments are usually recommended to treat generalized anxiety disorder, especially cognitive behavioral therapy. Relaxation methods such as autogenic training or progressive muscle relaxation, medication or self-help groups can also help those affected.

Digital applications are often based on the principles of cognitive behavioral therapy and provide, for example, texts and videos with which those affected can work and practice themselves. They can also include additional features, such as an anxiety diary or automatic reminder functions. © hil/aerzteblatt.de