Which statement best describes the role of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in generalized anxiety disorder management when pharmacotherapy is used?

• A. CBT is commonly used in combination with SSRIs or SNRIs
• B. CBT is not used with pharmacotherapy
• C. CBT cures anxiety on its own
• D. CBT worsens symptoms

Answer: (A)

In generalized anxiety disorder, combining cognitive-behavioral therapy with pharmacotherapy is common because the two approaches target different aspects of the illness. CBT addresses the way you think about worry and the behaviors that sustain anxiety—teaching you to identify and challenge catastrophic thoughts, reduce avoidance, and apply coping strategies. When you’re on an SSRI or SNRI, CBT can build on the medication’s symptom relief by providing practical skills and structured exercises that help you manage worry more effectively and improve functioning. This combination often leads to greater overall improvement and can help prevent relapse better than medication alone. CBT isn’t a standalone cure, and it doesn’t worsen symptoms; it simply works best when used alongside appropriate pharmacotherapy.