Mental Health Conditions Treated by Psychotherapy and Medication

Psychotherapy and medication are the two most common forms of psychiatry treatment. Here is an overview of conditions that psychotherapy and medication can help treat.

What conditions can psychotherapy and medication help treat?

There are different types of medications, including SSRIs and anti-anxiety medications. There are also other types of psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and grief counseling. The type of medication and psychotherapy depends on the type of mental health condition for which the patient is seeking treatment.

Major depressive disorder (and other forms of depression)

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a form of depression that shows symptoms such as extreme and prolonged sadness and a lack of interest in daily activity. Psychotherapy and medications are the most common ways in which MDD is treated. However, other areas of focus, such as lifestyle changes, dietary changes, and alternative therapies (i.e., massage therapy, yoga), may also play a role. In particular, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used for MDD. Antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed along with regular psychotherapy sessions.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder, also called manic depression, is a form of depression in which the individual experiences mood swings from a manic state to a depressed state. Anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, and SSRIs are often used to help treat bipolar disorder. Psychotherapy is integral for the successful treatment of bipolar disorder as well. In addition to CBT, family therapy and support groups may help also.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs after a traumatic event such as losing a loved one, war experience, or physical abuse. With PTSD, the individual has difficulty recovering from the traumatic experience. Symptoms may include avoidance of the situation (or similar situations) entirely, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, and trouble concentrating. PTSD treatment usually involves cognitive-behavioral therapy or grief counseling. Although medication is less prescribed, SSRIs, in particular, may be appropriate and beneficial in certain situations.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized as repetitive behaviors caused by excessive and often uncontrollable thoughts. Behavioral therapy is a common type of psychotherapy used to help treat OCD. In addition, anxiolytics, SSRIs, or antidepressants may be prescribed depending on the specifics of the patient’s OCD and situation.

Anxiety disorder

Some minor nervousness is common in certain life situations. However, patients with an anxiety disorder may have irrational and entirely uncontrollable fears and anxiety related to normal daily activities. Treatments for anxiety disorders include cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications such as SSRIs and anxiolytics. The goal is to help the individual remain functional and minimize their daily level of anxiety.