Final answer:
Progressive muscle relaxation (B) is an effective relaxation technique for the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), while hyperventilation, avoidance strategies, and increased caffeine intake are not recommended. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is also a significant treatment method for GAD and insomnia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
When considering the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), relaxation techniques play an important role in reducing symptoms. These methods are intended to decrease sympathetic arousal and aid in stress management. Especially in the context of relaxation techniques, option B, Progressive muscle relaxation, is a proven method that encourages individuals to relax their muscles in a sequential order, thereby promoting overall calmness.
Conversely, some techniques are counterproductive for managing anxiety. Hyperventilation (A) can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, while Avoidance strategies (C) can lead to a worsening of symptoms by reinforcing fear. Increasing caffeine intake (D) is also not advisable, as caffeine is a stimulant that can increase arousal and anxiety symptoms, and may impair sleep quality, which is often already compromised in individuals with GAD.
Effective treatments for anxiety and related symptoms such as insomnia often incorporate methods to reduce stress and anxiety, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on identifying and changing cognitive distortions and behaviors that contribute to the disorder. Furthermore, relaxation response techniques and exercise are recommended stress reduction techniques that improve mental health.