Depression: How Is It Treated?

Mental illnesses such as depression can often be successfully managed with the right approach. Around 80% to 90% of those who suffer from depression find relief through treatment, and the vast majority of patients see some improvement in their condition.

A full diagnostic evaluation, including an interview and a physical examination, should be performed by a health expert before a diagnosis or therapy can be determined. In rare situations, a blood test may be done to rule out a medical disease like a thyroid issue or a vitamin deficiency as the reason for the depression (reversing the medical cause would alleviate the depression-like symptoms). Symptoms and medical and family histories will be examined, together with cultural and environmental factors, to arrive at a diagnosis and plan of action.

Medication

Mental illness can be linked to an individual’s brain chemistry, influencing the therapy they get. A person’s brain chemistry may be altered by taking antidepressants. These drugs are not tranquilizers, sedatives, or “ups,” and they don’t become a bad habit. In most cases, antidepressants have little impact on persons who are not depressed.

The first week or two of antidepressant medication may improve, but full effects may not be felt for two to three months after starting treatment. Psychiatrists can modify the dosage or replace another antidepressant if a patient continues to experience little or no improvement after several weeks. Psychotropic medicine may be helpful in some cases. A treatment that does not work or has negative effects should be reported to your doctor as soon as possible.

Six to nine months after the symptoms have subsided, psychiatric experts recommend that patients continue taking medication. Long-term treatment may be recommended for those at high risk to prevent recurrence episodes.

Psychotherapy

For mild to moderate depression, talk therapy alone may be used; for moderate to severe depression, psychotherapy and antidepressant drugs are frequently used together. Depression can be treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). With CBT, the focus is on dealing with problems right now. An individual’s attitudes and actions can be changed through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them cope better with life’s obstacles.

Psychotherapy can involve more than just the patient; it can also include family members, friends, and other professionals. Family or couples therapy, for example, can help resolve problems in close relationships. Participants in group therapy can interact with others going through similar things and gain insight into their coping mechanisms.

Recovering from depression can take weeks or months. Within 10 to 15 sessions, a significant improvement can be achieved in many cases.

Coping and Self-Help

A variety of methods can alleviate depressive symptoms. Regular physical activity helps many people feel better and elevates their mood. Depressive symptoms can be eased by maintaining a regular sleep schedule, eating nutritious food, and abstaining from alcohol, which is a depressant.

There is a medical treatment for depression. Most people who suffer from depression will be able to recover with the help of an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. To get help for depression, you should see your primary care physician or a psychiatrist as soon as possible. Talk about your issues and ask for a comprehensive review. It’s a good place to start.

Treatment Using Electroconvulsive Devices (ECT)

For severe major depressive patients, electroconvulsive treatment is often used (ECT). During anesthesia, the brain is briefly stimulated by electrical currents. ECT is usually used twice a week for six to twelve treatments. A team of medical experts, including a psychiatrist, an anesthesiologist, and a nurse or physician assistant, often take care of this. There have been considerable developments in ECT since the 1940s, and it is now recognized as a mainstream treatment rather than a “last resort.”