Strategies and Challenges in Nursing Practice in the Management of Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Primary Health Care

Abstract

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition characterized by excessive, persistent, and difficult-to-control worry, significantly impacting individuals' quality of life and requiring continuous monitoring within healthcare services. In this context, nursing plays a relevant role, especially in Primary Health Care, contributing to comprehensive care, patient reception, and continuous follow-up. This study aimed to describe the strategies and challenges of nurses' performance in managing generalized anxiety disorder in Primary Health Care. This is an integrative literature review, developed through searches in the LILACS, SciELO, Virtual Health Library, and PubMed/MEDLINE databases. For study selection, descriptors in Portuguese and English were used, derived from the Health Sciences Descriptors and Medical Subject Headings, combined using Boolean operators. Previously established criteria were applied, resulting in the inclusion of 10 studies published between 2020 and 2026. The findings indicate that nurses play a fundamental role in early identification of cases, patient reception, qualified listening, and continuous follow-up, promoting more comprehensive care. However, limitations related to professional qualification, work overload, and healthcare service organization were also identified. It is concluded that nursing practice is essential in managing GAD in Primary Health Care, and it is necessary to strengthen training strategies and care organization to promote more effective and user-centered assistance.