Physical Exercise Augmented CBT for GAD

Physical Exercise Augmented Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Older Adults With Generalised Anxiety Disorder

Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is a severe and debilitating anxiety disorder that is highly prevalent among older adults. Anxiety and GAD is a well-documented risk factor for the development of other severe conditions such as depression and dementia, and effective treatments are called for. However, recommended treatment for GAD has consistently been found to yield blunted response rates for older adults compared to younger patients.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of exercise-augmented cognitive behaviour therapy for older adults with GAD. Exercise augmented CBT is expected to yield better results than standard CBT in terms of greater reduction of symptoms and increased rates of remission. The investigators will also investigate the effects of treatment on biological, physiological and neuropsychological measures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Primary diagnosis of GAD

Exclusion Criteria:

• Substance abuse
• Use of benzodiazepines, use of antipsychotica
• Lack of ability to stabilize other psychotropic medication during participating in the study
• Medical condition that precludes participation in physical exercise
• Severe major depression as determined by the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview
• Life-time history of psychosis and/or mania
• Participation in other ongoing psychotherapy
• Organic brain disease
• Positive screening for dementia with Mini Mental State Examination
• Currently engaged in a regular physical exercise program