Antidepressants vs Therapy: Understanding Depression Treatment Options

Depression treatment isn’t necessarily a choice between medication and psychotherapy. Depending on the person’s situation, both may have a role.

NIMH identifies psychotherapy, medication or a combination of both as common approaches to depression treatment.

Medication

Antidepressants can help reduce symptoms for many people.

Psychotherapy

Evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy can help people identify and change unhelpful thought and behavior patterns.

Which Is Better?

There isn’t one universally best treatment. Treatment should be individualized according to symptoms, severity, preferences, health history and professional assessment.