What treatment approach is often used for major depressive disorder?

The treatment approach that is commonly used for major depressive disorder is antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications are designed to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter that is often linked to mood regulation. By enhancing serotonin activity, SSRIs can help alleviate the symptoms of depression, leading to improved mood and overall functioning.

SSRIs have become a first-line treatment option due to their generally favorable side effect profile compared to other types of antidepressants. They have been extensively studied and have shown effectiveness in relieving depressive symptoms for many individuals, making them a recommended choice in clinical settings for treating major depressive disorder.

Other treatment methods, while they may be utilized in specific situations, typically do not serve as the primary first-line option for major depressive disorder. For instance, benzodiazepines are primarily prescribed for anxiety and can sometimes exacerbate depression. Electroconvulsive therapy is usually reserved for severe cases that have not responded to other treatments and is not a standard first-line therapy. Psychosurgery is rarely performed and is typically considered only for extreme cases where all other treatment options have been exhausted. Thus, antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, are the most appropriate and widely accepted initial treatment for major depressive disorder.