Therapy more effective than medication for mental health, majority of Americans say

Psychological counseling is more effective for treating mental health conditions than medication, a majority of Americans surveyed in a new Gallup poll found. 

Advertisement

The poll, published May 1, surveyed 2,266 U.S. adults on their views on behavioral healthcare. Of those surveyed, 18% said psychological counseling or therapy is “very effective” for improving mental health conditions. Just 10% said medication is “very effective” at managing these conditions. 

Another 35% of those surveyed rated counseling as “effective,” while 25% said the same about medication. 

Adults who reported a mental health condition in the past year were more likely to rate both forms of treatment as effective or very effective. Of survey respondents who reported having a mental health condition, 58% rated counseling as “very effective” or effective.” For medication, 48% rated the treatment as “very effective” or “effective.” 

Read the full survey here. 

At the Becker's Fall Behavioral Health Summit, taking place November 4–5 in Chicago, behavioral health leaders and executives will explore strategies for expanding access to care, integrating services, addressing workforce challenges and leveraging innovation to improve outcomes across the behavioral health continuum. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Advertisement

Next Up in Mental Health

Advertisement

Comments are closed.