What is the first-line treatment for depression?

What is the first-line treatment for depression?

• A. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
• B. Counseling and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
• C. Antipsychotics alone
• D. Herbal supplements only

Answer: (B)

First-line treatment for depression combines psychotherapy with antidepressant medication, typically an SSRI. Counseling helps develop coping strategies and reshape negative thought patterns, while SSRIs increase serotonin signaling to improve mood, sleep, and appetite. This combination is favored for most adults with mild-to-moderate depression because it has strong effectiveness and a safety profile that is suitable for many patients. More intensive options like electroconvulsive therapy are reserved for severe cases, treatment resistance, or urgent risk, and antipsychotics alone aren’t used as the initial approach for uncomplicated depression. Herbal supplements alone generally lack solid evidence and aren’t recommended as the sole treatment. If starting an SSRI, be prepared for a several-week lag before improvements appear, and monitor for side effects and any changes in suicidal thoughts, especially early in treatment.

First-line treatment for depression combines psychotherapy with antidepressant medication, typically an SSRI. Counseling helps develop coping strategies and reshape negative thought patterns, while SSRIs increase serotonin signaling to improve mood, sleep, and appetite. This combination is favored for most adults with mild-to-moderate depression because it has strong effectiveness and a safety profile that is suitable for many patients. More intensive options like electroconvulsive therapy are reserved for severe cases, treatment resistance, or urgent risk, and antipsychotics alone aren’t used as the initial approach for uncomplicated depression. Herbal supplements alone generally lack solid evidence and aren’t recommended as the sole treatment. If starting an SSRI, be prepared for a several-week lag before improvements appear, and monitor for side effects and any changes in suicidal thoughts, especially early in treatment.