Economic evaluation of the cognitive-behavioral therapy of the anxiety disorders

This literature review examines the results of cost-effectiveness studies of cognitive-behaviour therapies published up to June 2003. Cost offsets likely to be derived from effective treatment of anxiety problems are also examined. A summary of results suggests the following: 1) cognitive behaviour therapy is cost-effective compared to drug therapy for the treatment of panic disorder and social phobia; 2) group treatments and short courses as well as new technologies are promising alternatives to conventional therapy; 3) the existence of cost offsets for anxiety disorders has yet to be ascertained. Research approaches are suggested to cover significant shortcomings in the methodologies of studies conducted to date.