A Review of the Efficacy of Interventions Based on Artificial Intelligence and Virtual Reality in the Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Generalized anxiety disorder is one of the most common mental health issues, characterized by persistent worry, somatic symptoms, and reduced quality of life, imposing a heavy burden on healthcare systems. Traditional treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and relaxation techniques are effective but face limitations including low accessibility, high costs, and inadequate adherence. This review examines recent advancements in the application of artificial intelligence and virtual reality for managing this disorder. Artificial intelligence approaches focus on early detection and continuous monitoring through wearable sensors and machine learning, demonstrating high accuracy and scalability. In contrast, virtual reality interventions facilitate symptom reduction, increased engagement, and physiological improvements by creating immersive experiences. The findings emphasize the complementary nature of these two technologies: artificial intelligence excels in objective screening and long-term follow-up, while virtual reality is more effective in active treatment and cognitive restoration. Despite promising results, challenges such as privacy concerns, equipment costs, and the need for standardized protocols persist. Integrating these technologies provides a scalable and personalized framework to overcome barriers in traditional care. Future research should focus on hybrid models, long-term evaluations, and equitable implementation to optimize therapeutic outcomes.

Keywords:

Generalized anxiety disorder , artificial intelligence , virtual reality , cognitive-behavioral therapy , digital interventions