Combat

Over the past half century, cognitive behavioral therapy has emerged as the preferred evidence-based treatment for many mild psychological issues. For example, a 2016 meta-analysis of 144 studies found CBT to be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety disorders. And a 2019 systematic review of 34 randomized controlled trials confirmed its effectiveness in combating depression and recommended it for use in primary care. In the UK, cognitive behavioral therapy is considered the gold standard and is recommended by the country’s globally respected National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines as the first line of treatment for low mood and anxiety, which are the most common mental-health difficulties reported by people of working age. In the United States, many medical bodies, insurance companies, and government health providers recommend CBT as a first-line treatment for disorders such as insomnia, PTSD, and anxiety.