Digital Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Anxiety Disorders: A Review of Efficacy and Accessibility
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Background
Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, significantly impacting individuals’ quality of life and contributing to the global burden of disease. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based intervention, but traditional in-person therapy faces numerous barriers, including cost, access, stigma, and shortage of providers.
Objective
This review explores the growing field of digital CBT (dCBT) for anxiety disorders, summarizing recent findings on its clinical efficacy, accessibility, and future integration into healthcare systems.
Methods
A structured search was conducted of studies published from 2017 to 2024 in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus databases, focusing on randomized controlled trials (RCTs), meta-analyses, and large observational studies on dCBT for anxiety.
Results
Multiple RCTs and meta-analyses have demonstrated that dCBT is significantly effective in reducing generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder (PD), and specific phobias, often with moderate-to-large effect sizes. Key advantages include scalability, anonymity, and cost-effectiveness. However, dropout rates and patient adherence remain concerns.
Conclusions
Digital CBT is a viable alternative or supplement to in-person therapy for anxiety disorders. Further research is needed on personalizing interventions and optimizing engagement.
