Drugs provide out-patient care which reduces institutionalization
Limitations:
They have side effects and do not cure patients. Studies indicate that the placebo effect could account for the effectiveness of medication.
Some researchers and psychiatrists now criticize the heavy use of medication on the grounds that it is not well known how it affects the brain long term (see Neale et al. 2001). Some patients do not respond at all to the druge.
There are high relapse rather. Neale et al. found 25% of patients suffer a relapse if they go through only psychological theory, whereas 65% do when on medication.
There is also increasing criticism of the role of pharmaceutical companies and their marketing of antidepressants, which has led to an increase in the prescription of SSRI.
It can lead to a discontinuation syndrome
They do not consider other problems e.g: social, cognitive and thus cannot stop depression. This it is a reductionist approach
INDIVIDUAL: Strengths:
focuses causes rather than symptoms
long-term benefits
adaptable to individuals
no physical side effects
less socia desirability
Weaknesses:
costly
patient may become dependent on therapist or may have difficulty opening up
GROUP: Strengths:
cheaper
time efficient
encourages patients to develop relationships and communication skills which may have suffered due to condition