Which of the following is a common treatment approach for depression?

The combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy is a common and effective treatment approach for depression. This dual strategy recognizes that depression can have both biological and psychological components.

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can provide patients with tools to manage their thoughts and behaviors, thus addressing the psychological aspects of depression. Simultaneously, pharmacotherapy, often involving antidepressant medications like SSRIs or SNRIs, can help correct the neurochemical imbalances that contribute to depressive symptoms. Studies have shown that using both treatment modalities together often leads to better outcomes than either approach alone, as they can complement each other in addressing different facets of the condition.

While counseling and therapy, lifestyle modifications, or exclusive use of herbal remedies may provide benefits for some individuals, they typically do not provide the comprehensive approach necessary for treating moderate to severe depression effectively. Psychotherapy alone might not be sufficient for all patients, particularly those with more pronounced biological symptoms. Lifestyle changes can be beneficial as part of an overall wellness strategy, but they usually lack the intensity needed to manage acute depressive episodes by themselves. Using only herbal remedies also does not have enough robust evidence to support their efficacy as an exclusive treatment for depression.