Management of generalised anxiety disorder

Generalised anxiety disorder is common and can present in older people, often in conjunction with depressive symptoms. Pharmacological treatments have included tricyclic antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and antipsychotics, but a selection of new drugs are now specifically licensed for this disorder. Psychological therapies such as cognitive behaviour therapy and changing lifestyle factors, such as substance misuse and exercise are also important to achieve therapeutic success.