The Linden Method is a self-guided treatment for people who suffer from crippling panic attacks, agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety. Marketed online by its creator, Charles Linden, the Linden Method purportedly has a success rate of 96.7 percent when used correctly. However, no scientific studies have been conducted on the Linden Method to assess its efficacy.
About Charles Linden
Charles Linden, a native of Worcestershire, UK, received a bachelors degree in visual media at the University of Wolverhampton. Although Linden has no formal training in treating anxiety disorders, he researched and created the Linden Method after struggling with anxiety and panic attacks for 25 years. Purportedly, Linden discovered a quick way to cure himself in 1996. He opened the first Linden Center in 1999 in the UK to provide resources to anxiety disorder sufferers and subsequently established additional centers in the United States, Germany, Denmark and Spain.
Linden Method Products
The Linden Method is available in three different products: a download version, print version and the Linden Method Junior Version, which includes two additional hard-copy DVDs. All include the Linden method manual, as well as various audio files or audio CDs. Hard copy products come with an introductory DVD and full access to the download version of the Linden Method. According to the product marketer, all Linden Method items include a year of round-the-clock email and telephone support.
Cost of Purchase
In January 2011, the Linden Method Download Version was priced at $87. The Linden Method Print and Junior versions cost $177 and $197, respectively. According to the official website the products come with a 365-day guarantee, or your money will be refunded. The Linden Method is also a product promoted by Clickbank affiliate members. Affiliate marketers make $62 for every Linden Method product they sell through their affiliate link.
The Method
Linden asserts that anti-anxiety drugs and counseling are not the answer to curing anxiety and panic attacks. The way the Linden Method works is not described on the official website except to indicate that it purportedly cures anxiety and panic attacks naturally and quickly between a few days and few weeks. The method, which is described over 19 chapters, provides information about how diet and exercise are beneficial to psychological health and how breathing and relaxation techniques can prevent intrusive, recurring thoughts that trigger anxiety. The Linden Method relies heavily on user testimonials to promote the products. However, many anecdotal reviews of the Linden Method suggest that it is less of a "method" and more a compilation of information and strategies about which anxiety sufferers are already aware.
Expert Insight
The National Institute of Mental Health, or NIMH, advises you to first see your treating physician if you think you have anxiety disorder. Only a doctor can make sure that your symptoms are caused by anxiety. In-person counseling from a mental health professional is generally the first way anxiety disorder is treated; prescription anti-anxiety medication may be recommended if appropriate. The NIMH stresses the importance of remaining on your medication until you speak with your doctor -- don't stop taking it abruptly. And finally, approach any advice you get from the Internet with caution. Products that claim to be an effective, quick fix for a variety of problems have all the markings of health fraud, according to the Federal Trade Commission.
