In the treatment of depression, antidepressants are the most common in the U.S. Psychotherapy uses “nondrug strategies to help alleviate depressive symptoms” (Antonuccio, Danton, DeNelsky, 1995). Although psychotherapy has shown to be effective in treating depression, it is most often ignored. Medications have been successful in treatment, but regarding side effects and long term results, it can be questioned if there are any other safer alternatives. The studies performed assesses three different types of therapy vs. medication, the side effects and safety of both, and the final results and suggestions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is used as a way to teach skills, set and achieve certain goals, and give a new perspective. There are three types of cognitive-behavioral therapies: pleasant activity therapy, cognitive therapy, and social skills therapy (Antonuccio et al, 1995). Pleasant activity therapy is used because it has been found that with an increase of pleasant activity, an increase of mood will result. No known studies have compared this type of therapy with antidepressants; however, a study assigning 97 patients to either patient activity therapy, relaxation therapy, or minimal contact, and combining amitriptyline or a placebo showed that pleasant therapy paired …show more content…
Some side effects include the lesser severe symptoms such as dry mouth, constipation, and weight gain, to the more serious side effects such as seizures, heart failure, and death. Antidepressants are also known to be used in the act of suicide from overdose. The previously mentioned symptoms are evident when the antidepressant is being used, but there are also side effects when it is no longer in use. Withdrawal is a common side effect in those who stop using antidepressants and include symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and vivid