Effectiveness of complementary and self‐help treatments for anxiety disorders

Abstract

Objectives: To review the evidence for the effectiveness of complementary and self‐help treatments for anxiety disorders. Data sources: Systematic literature search using PubMed, PsycLit, and the Cochrane Library. Data synthesis: 108 treatments were identified and grouped under the categories of medicines and homoeopathic remedies, physical treatments, lifestyle, and dietary changes. We give a description of the 34 treatments (for which evidence was found in the literature searched), the rationale behind the treatments, a review of studies on effectiveness, and the level of evidence for the effectiveness studies. Conclusions: The treatments with the best evidence of effectiveness are kava (for generalised anxiety), exercise (for generalised anxiety), relaxation training (for generalised anxiety, panic disorder, dental phobia and test anxiety) and bibliotherapy (for specific phobias). There is more limited evidence to support the effectiveness of acupuncture, music, autogenic training and meditation for generalised anxiety; for inositol in the treatment of panic disorder and obsessive‐compulsive disorder; and for alcohol avoidance by people with alcohol‐use disorders to reduce a range of anxiety disorders.

The efficacy of traditional Thai massage in decreasing spasticity in elderly stroke patients

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Mental health first aid responses of the public: results from an Australian national survey

“…Respondents appear to have suggested self-help as an alternative to professional help, rather than as a complement to it. We have previously reviewed the evidence on self-help interventions for depression and anxiety disorders and found that some have support [16,17]. Such interventions need to more widely promoted, but not as a substitute for professional help.…”

Yoga for anxiety: a systematic review of the research evidence

“…21 Randomised and non-randomised controlled trials Eight studies were found. All were controlled trials; six were randomised [22][23][24][25][26][27] and two were non-randomised.…”