CBT and medication in depression (Review)

Abstract

Depression is a serious problem, primarily for the patient, but in-extenso, for society. The World Health Organization has long signaled an increase in the number of cases of mental health problems globally and, in particular, an increase in the number of people suffering from depression. In the context in which the most effective solutions are sought for the reduction and even remission of depressive symptoms. In the present review literature is analyzed on two current treatment modalities for depression: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and antidepressive medication (ADM). Both modalities act by the same internal mechanisms, in the same order, but studies found also differences between the ADM and CBT effects depending on early traumatic experiences of the patients, cognitive and genetic variables, other epigenetic factors and patient's history. A literature review is presented, which systematically collects actual data and synthesizes previous research findings in the field of depression treatment using ADM and CBT.