Sequential Therapy: Adding Psychotherapy After Antidepressants Reduces Relapse Risk
Does adding therapy after antidepressants prevent relapse?
Adding psychotherapy after antidepressant response significantly reduces depression relapse risk. Meta-analysis of 17 trials (2,283 participants) shows superior long-term outcomes compared to medication alone.
Sequential combination works by providing patients with lasting coping skills after medication achieves initial response, creating better long-term protection than medication alone.
What the data show:
- Against medication alone: significantly lower relapse rates
- Treatment sequence: therapy added after medication response achieved
- Long-term outcomes: sustained benefits over time
- Evidence base: 17 randomized trials confirm effectiveness
- Mechanism: provides lasting coping skills for relapse prevention
A comprehensive systematic review published in JAMA Psychiatry demonstrates that sequential combination of pharmacotherapy followed by psychotherapy significantly reduces the risk of relapse and recurrence in major depressive disorder.