Koch, Lisa2010-07-292010-07-292010-07-29https://hdl.handle.net/11299/92569The information provided in this handout does not necessarily reflect the views of the University of Minnesota Medical School physicians and faculty. These materials are provided for informational purposes only and are in no way intended to take the place of the advice and recommendations of your personal health care provider. You use the information provided in these handouts at your own risk.Anti-depressants do not treat mild to moderate depression better than placebo. They also have potential side effects and significant costs. For patients with mild to moderate depression, psychotherapy should be the first choice for treatment. Psychotherapy, or counseling, has been shown to be effective for depression and does not have the side effects associated with anti-depressants. For treating more severe depression, anti-depressants are more effective than placebo and should remain a first choice for therapy.en-USanti-depressantsdepressionplacebo effectpsychotherapyOther