THE EFFICACY OF COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY IN THE TREATMENT OF ANXIETY DISORDERS

Abstract

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common condition today, characterized by excessive, persistent, and difficult-to-control worries associated with physical and cognitive symptoms that negatively impact individuals' quality of life. In this context, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been widely discussed in the scientific literature as an effective approach for managing this disorder. This study aims to analyze the contributions of CBT to the treatment of GAD through an integrative literature review. It is a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study based on the analysis of scientific articles published in national and international databases. Seventeen articles were selected according to pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria. The analysis of the studies revealed a consensus regarding the understanding of GAD and the effectiveness of CBT as a first-line approach, highlighting techniques such as psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, Socratic questioning, gradual exposure, and emotional regulation strategies. The results indicate that CBT contributes significantly to reducing anxiety symptoms, developing more adaptive coping strategies, and improving patients' quality of life, thereby reinforcing its clinical and scientific relevance in the treatment of GAD.