Cost-effectiveness of interventions for anxiety and depressive disorders

Abstract

Depression and anxiety disorders are highly prevalent diagnoses associated with significant morbidity and economic burden to healthcare systems and society. It is important to consider the costs and outcomes of the various pharmacologic and psychologic therapies available for the treatment and prevention of these diagnoses in order to provide services in the most efficient way. This chapter reviews the numerous economic evaluations previously undertaken to evaluate medications and the psychological (both in-person and Internet-based) and combination therapies used as treatments for diagnosed depression and anxiety. It also reviews the growing literature on interventions for the prevention of these conditions. A discussion of methodologic concerns is included to provide guidance for interpreting the existing evidence and as a basis for the design of future evaluations.