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A meta-analysis included 41 randomized controlled trials that compared CBT with placebo. In 34 of these studies, the intervention was delivered on an individual basis, whereas in the remaining 7 studies CBT was delivered to groups.

The cognitive‒behavioural model describes the maladaptive processes that can occur during mental disorders. Maladaptive beliefs can lead to maladaptive cognitions following exposure to certain triggers (e.g., situations, events, sensations, other thoughts). The triggers are evaluated and interpreted – appraisal – which leads to a subjective experience, physiological symptoms, and behavioural response.

Components of the brain’s threat circuitry – including the hippocampus, stria terminalis and its bed nucleus, amygdala, and frontal regions including the medial prefrontal cortex and insula – all interact depending on the nature and proximity of perceived threats to produce an appropriate response, ranging from avoidance to fighting.

Whilst it is relatively well established from epidemiological research that the prevalence of anxiety disorders is higher in females compared with males, the reasons behind this disparity are unclear.