Treatable Depression

Depression is a very common disorder in the world today. There are many different forms of depression and so much of the population is seeking relief. While depression may be over-diagnosed and misdiagnosed, the reality persists that people are seeking treatment for their uncontrolled feelings of being down. There are several options for treatments and high success rates with each type as well as with combinations of treatments. If you are thinking about seeking out treatment, the following information will help you understand what you should expect. Medical physicians will occasionally treat depression, but it is usually a better idea to take advantage of the more complete knowledge of a psychiatrist. A medical physician or a psychologist can recommend one or make a referral.

Medication
While many other factors are important in treating depression, medication is one of the most popular and effective methods available. There are many, many different drugs on the market. Since the brain is such a unique part of the body, one drug does not effectively treat depression in every individual. The medications are working with the brain to regulate and return chemical functions to normal. If one medication doesn’t work for you, your psychiatrist can continue to prescribe different types of medications and medication combinations until one does work. Keep in mind that drugs for depression take time to build in the system and the effects may not be felt for up to one month. Continued medication will be necessary for at least 6 months and possibly longer. If trial reductions in dose lead to a return of symptoms, medication may be needed on a very long-term basis.

Alternatives to Medication
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) can be even more effective than medication and operates very quickly. There is not a long waiting period for results. It is not practical to consistently use ECG and so medication may also be required to maintain healthy symptoms.

UV lights are effective for seasonal depression because they convince the brain that the days are longer. For those who suffer from winter time depression, the lights are an un-invasive and enjoyable option.

There are some herbs and plants that hold claims to anti-depressant powers. While they may hold some sway in that direction, there has not been any significant research done to determine the accuracy of the claims. Natural treatments can be an option, but should be discussed with a doctor first.

Therapy
No matter what type of other treatments a person undergoes for depression, they should almost always be combined with some type of therapy. There are, again, many different types to choose from, depending on a person’s needs and preferences. The goal is to adjust thinking habits, behavior, relationships or any number of other issues in a person’s life. By taking some proactive steps, a person can begin to take control of his or her life and be better equipped to deal with depressive symptoms in the future. Taking control of depression instead of allowing it to have reign can lead to a fuller and happier life. Recognizing the symptoms and taking action instead of succumbing is the first step.

Frances, Allen MD and First, Michael B. MD. Your Mental Health: A Layman’s Guide to
the Psychiatrist’s Bible. New York: Scribner, 1998.

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