The impact of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on anxiety and cognitive function in generalized anxiety disorder: a comprehensive review

• Anxiety sympotoms decrease in response to Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. • As a promising and novel treatment approach, rTMS has shown certain positive effects on GAD. • It is necessary to assess the impact of rTMS on cognitive function in future research. Anxiety disorder is one of the major health burdens in the world, and most of the patients have significantly impaired social function, which seriously affects their quality of life. Currently, conventional treatment methods include medication and psychotherapy. However, due to the limitations of these treatments and the lack of response in some patients, finding effective alternative treatment options has become urgent. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), as a relatively non-invasive and safe physical therapy, has been increasingly recommended for anxiety disorders in recent years. Nevertheless, the therapeutic effects, optimal stimulation sites, and stimulation parameters are not yet clear. This article aims to provide a systematic review of the current state of rTMS treatment for generalized anxiety disorder(GAD), offering new perspectives for seeking more effective and personalised adjunctive options.