Evolving Treatments for Anxiety Disorders: A 70-Year Journey

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Evolving Treatments for Anxiety Disorders: A 70-Year Journey

November 12, 2025

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Overview

Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health issues globally, affecting approximately 4% to 5% of the population at any given time. Over the past 70 years, treatments for anxiety have undergone significant transformations, reflecting a deeper understanding of mental health needs and the necessity for tailored therapies. This evolution includes a range of pharmacological and therapeutic approaches designed to alleviate symptoms and improve patient outcomes. In the mid-20th century, treatments were primarily limited to benzodiazepines, which were introduced in the 1960s as a quick solution to anxiety by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA. However, this class of medications posed risks of dependency and abuse, leading to a search for safer alternatives. Early antidepressants also began to play a role, but their side effects limited widespread use. The introduction of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in the 1980s marked a pivotal shift, as these medications offered a more favorable side effect profile and became the first-line treatment for anxiety disorders by effectively targeting serotonin levels in the brain. This shift not only improved access to treatment but also broadened the scope of patient care, fostering a more holistic approach to mental health.

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