Combined medication and psychotherapy in the treatment of chronic mood disorders.

This article discusses the use of combined treatments for patients with chronic mood disorders. Although very little research concerning the efficacy of combined treatments for patients with chronic depression exists, clinical experience and limited available research suggest that combined treatment may be the most effective treatment option available for this population. The use of combination treatment involving pharmacotherapy, individual psychotherapy, and marital/family therapy is recommended to address the complex biopsychosocial issues involved in chronic mood disorders. Other theoretical and pragmatic issues concerning the delivery of combined treatment also are discussed.