Conquering Depression

Once in awhile, everyone will feel sad or blue. These feelings are fleeting and normal. But when a person is suffering from depression, the sadness will interfere with daily life and cause pain for both the person and those who love him or her. Depression is a serious illness and those who have it need treatment to get better. A lot of people who suffer from depression never try to seek treatment. However, it is a good thing that the vast majority usually decides to get treatment to cure this condition.

Intensive scientific research has allowed medications, psychotherapies, and other methods to be developed.

Medication

Most anti-depressants are used to normalize the brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Other anti-depressants are formulated to work with the neurotransmitter known as dopamine. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is the most popular type of anti-depressant right now because it has fewer side effects when compared to its predecessors.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is also known as “talk therapy”. This type of treatment is best for mild to moderate depression. Most treatment regimens last for 10 to 20 weeks, although there are longer-term therapies that can be designed to meet the needs of an individual. There are two main types of psychotherapy, namely interpersonal therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Electroconvulsive Therapy

When medications and psychotherapy no longer work, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can be useful. Formerly called “shock therapy”, this treatment is usually used for individuals with severe depression. Before the treatment is administered, it is important to put the patient under brief anesthesia.

Overview of Depression

Help Guide: Understanding Depression

All about Depression

National Institute of Mental Health: Depression

Kid’s Health: Depression

Medicine Net: Depression

Available Treatments

National Alliance on Mental Illness: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Family Doctor: Treatment with Electroconvulsive Therapy

American Psychological Association: Finding Help

Medicine Plus: Anti-depressants

Mayo Clinic: Psychotherapy

Coping With Depression

Depression and Trauma

Mental Health America: When Depression Enters a Relationship

Mayo Clinic: Supporting a Family Member with Depression

Suicide Help

Suicidal: When No One Knows Your Pain

Suicide and Suicide Prevention

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