As Seen On TV: Anxiety Treatments

Dec. 24, 2008— -- A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that combining cognitive behavioral therapy and an anti-anxiety medication proved more effective than either treatment alone.

Caitlin Carey, 17, who has suffered from anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder since she was 6, found relief through the combination of medication and therapy sessions. Having worked through her anxiety, she launched a Web site, Out of the Silence, where she shares her experiences and encourages others like her to speak out. For more information on Carey's story, click here.

Join in on the discussion. On Carey's Web site, there are peer support discussion groups for those dealing with anxiety disorders, depression and more. She encourages all young people to let their voices be heard.

In the New England Journal of Medicine's study, 500 kids with separation, social and general anxiety disorders were given medication, therapy, both, or a placebo. More than 80 percent of the children given both treatments improved, while only 61 percent who received therapy improved and just 56 percent saw improvement from medication. For more information on this study, click here.

If you have questions about what anxiety is or how to determine the difference between "normal" anxiety and a disorder, visit the ABC News On Call+ Anxiety Overview, with links to information from experts in the field.