Keywords
Interventions
Mental disorders
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Abstract
Objective: To analyze and compare the effectiveness of different pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches used in the treatment of mental problems in adults, focusing on outpatient and primary care settings. Methods: This is an integrative literature review carried out through the PubMED, Virtual Health Library (VHL) and CAPES Periodical databases, using the descriptors: “Anxiety Disorders”, “Therapeutics”, “Adults” and “Primary Health Care” and obtaining the search truncation: (Anxiety Disorders) AND (Therapeutics) AND (Adults) AND (Primary Health Care). A total of 2,660 articles were found, filtered according to inclusion criteria (Portuguese, English and Spanish; period from 2020 to 2025; full articles) and exclusion criteria (duplicate articles, abstracts, out of scope). Results: The effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions (digital, mindfulness) for mental health in primary care is increasing, valuing patient autonomy and low cost. Factors such as pressure for rapid relief and limited access to therapies shape the use of medications, including the challenge of benzodiazepines and the potential of alternatives such as CBD. Final considerations: Successful implementation of any approach depends on overcoming barriers of acceptability, technological feasibility, and systemic integration, in addition to professional training.
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