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Is having counselling more effective than taking antidepressants? 8th April, 2016

The reality of depression* is widely accepted however there is more than one way to treat it. Whilst there is a place for medical intervention there is also growing concern that antidepressants are prescribed too easily because of the lack of suitable alternatives.

Medication may help bring some temporary relief but does not tackle the underlying cause and is not a long term solution.

Counselling or 'talking therapy' as it is also known is an alternative to antidepressants or a combination of both may be appropriate for some people.  Counsellors help clients to see things as they really are rather than run away from them which can sometimes bring other problems.  This is done sensitively and at your own pace. Sometimes talking therapy will reach the parts that the drugs cannot.

Don't be afraid to speak to your GP who should be able to help you explore the options available to you.  Your GP may even be able to offer you a limited counselling service in your own surgery.

* The National Institute for Health & Care Excellence (NICE England & Wales) recommends psychodynamic counselling for treating depression.

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