Which non-pharmacological approach is commonly used in conjunction with antidepressants?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used non-pharmacological approach that is often combined with antidepressant treatment to enhance overall therapeutic outcomes for patients with depression. CBT focuses on identifying and altering negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to depressive symptoms. By teaching individuals strategies to challenge and modify those thoughts, CBT helps patients develop healthier cognitive frameworks, thereby improving their emotional well-being.

The integration of CBT with antidepressant medication can lead to improved symptom reduction and lower rates of relapse compared to either treatment alone. This combination approach is particularly beneficial because medications can alleviate the biological aspects of depression, while CBT addresses the psychological components, providing a holistic treatment model.

Other options, while valuable therapies, may not be as commonly paired with antidepressants or may serve different therapeutic purposes. For example, psychodynamic therapy focuses on exploring past experiences and unconscious processes, supportive therapy is more about providing emotional support, and mindfulness meditation can help with stress reduction and emotional regulation but may not specifically target depression as effectively as CBT.