The Economic Impact of Depression Treatment in India: Evidence from Community-Based Provision of Pharmacotherapy

Manuela Angelucci and Daniel Bennett

American Economic Review, 2024, vol. 114, issue 1, 169-98

Abstract: This study evaluates the impact of depression treatment on economic behavior in Karnataka, India. We cross-randomize pharmacotherapy and livelihoods assistance among 1,000 depressed adults and evaluate impacts on depression severity, socioeconomic outcomes, and several potential pathways. When combined, the interventions reduce depression severity, with benefits that persist after treatment concludes. Pharmacotherapy alone has a weaker effect that is only marginally significant and dissipates sooner. Depression treatment does not significantly increase earnings, consumption, or human capital investment in children.

JEL-codes: I12 I15 I18 J13 J22 J31 O15 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1257/aer.20210687

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