How long does it take for anxiety to go away
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Duration for Anxiety to Subside: Insights from Research
Stepped-Care Approach for Late-Life Anxiety
Sustained Effects Over 24 Months
Research indicates that a stepped-care approach can significantly reduce anxiety in older adults over an extended period. A study involving 170 individuals aged 75 and older demonstrated that a preventive intervention halved the incidence of anxiety disorders over 24 months compared to usual care . The intervention included watchful waiting, minimally supported CBT-based self-help, problem-solving treatment, and medication referral if necessary. Notably, even after the cessation of active support in the second year, the favorable effects persisted, suggesting that structured, early interventions can have lasting benefits.
Mindfulness Meditation for Anxiety Disorders
Long-Term Benefits Over Three Years
Another study focused on the long-term effects of a mindfulness meditation-based stress reduction intervention for anxiety disorders. Initially, 22 patients with anxiety disorders showed significant improvements in anxiety and depression symptoms following an 8-week program. These improvements were maintained at a 3-month follow-up . Remarkably, a follow-up after three years revealed that the benefits were sustained, with participants continuing to show reduced anxiety and depression scores. This suggests that mindfulness meditation can offer enduring relief from anxiety when practiced consistently.
Conclusion
The duration for anxiety to subside can vary based on the intervention method. A stepped-care approach can provide significant and sustained relief over 24 months for older adults, while mindfulness meditation can offer long-term benefits lasting up to three years for individuals with anxiety disorders. Both methods highlight the importance of early and consistent intervention in managing anxiety effectively.
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