Introduction: Depression is one of the most common mental disorders worldwide. It is a complex health issue that affects an individual’s daily functioning. It occurs more frequently in women than in men due to a combination of hormonal influences, life experiences, social roles, and expectations. Treatment typically involves the use of antidepressants, which could theoretically be replaced by placebo; however, this approach raises several ethical concerns. Purpose: The main purpose of this thesis is to explore, through a review of professional literature, the effects of placebo on the symptoms of depression in adult women and to assess its potential as an effective therapeutic method. Methods: This thesis uses a descriptive research method based on the review of scientific and professional literature related to the use of placebo and alternative approaches in treating depression. The search for relevant literature was conducted in the following bibliographic databases: Medline (PubMed), CINAHL, COBIBI.SI, and the Google Scholar search engine. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Results: Based on the literature review, we identified the key mechanisms of placebo action and its beneficial effects in alleviating depressive symptoms. Placebo accounts for up to 72% of the response to antidepressant treatment and demonstrates a significant effect in reducing symptoms. However, this effect is not long lasting. It has a strong impact on symptom relief, though its potential limitations must not be overlooked. Discussion and conclusion: The placebo effect is based on the psychological mechanism of expectation and plays an important role in alleviating depressive symptoms. Studies indicate that in some cases, its effects can be comparable to those of antidepressants, as it activates similar brain systems targeted by pharmacological treatments. Ethical concerns surrounding placebo use could be addressed through the concept of open-label placebo, in which patients are not deceived, yet the therapeutic effect remains. The role of healthcare professionals is crucial in presenting the placebo concept in an ethical way that still carries therapeutic value. Despite the strong placebo response, its effect is typically short-lived, without long-term remission or recovery. Therefore, placebo is more suitable as an adjunct to standard therapy rather than a standalone treatment option.
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