Consumer Information Center Help for Depression

Depression is a treatable disorder. Even the most seriously depressed person can be treated successfully, often in a matter of weeks, and return to a happier and more fulfilling life. Such outcomes are a common story, even when people feel hopeless and helpless.

There are three major types of treatment for clinical depression: psychotherapy, medication, and, in some cases, other biological treatments. At times, different treatments may be used in combination.

Individuals respond differently to treatments. If after several weeks symptoms have not improved, the treatment plan should be reevaluated. Also, the procedures and possible side effects of all treatments should be fully discussed with the doctor.

People may find that mutual support groups are helpful when combined with other treatments.

Medication

There are many very effective medications. The three types of drugs most often used in the past to treat depression are tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and lithium. Now, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's) are also widely used! Lithium is very effective in the treatment of bipolar disorder and is also sometimes used to treat major depression.

• All medications alter the action of brain chemicals to improve mood, sleep, appetite, energy levels, and concentration.
• Different people may need different medications, and sometimes more than one medication is needed to treat clinical depression.
• Improvement usually occurs within weeks.

Psychotherapy

Talking with a trained therapist can also be effective in treating certain depressions, particularly those that are less severe. Short-term therapies (usually 12-20 sessions) developed to treat depression focus on the specific symptoms of depression.

• Cognitive therapy aims to help the patient recognize andchange negative thinking patterns that contribute to depression.
• Interpersonal therapy focuses on dealing more effectively with other people; improved relationships can reduce depressive symptoms.

Some depressions may respond best to electroconvulsive therapy. ECT is an effective treatment that is used in extremely severe cases of major depression when very rapid improvement is necessary, or when medications cannot be used or have not worked.
Improved procedures make this treatment much safer than in previous years. During treatment, anesthesia and a muscle relaxant protect patients from physical harm and pain.

Research is also being done on the use of light therapy as an adjunct to other treatments.

• For years, Tom had been looking forward to his retirement--with more time to fish. But after the first few months, not only had he stopped going fishing with his friends, he often did not go out of the house for days. Tom also complained to his wife about not sleeping well and about different aches and pains each day. Fortunately, his wife took him to a doctor who recognized Tom was depressed. After a few weeks of treatment, Tom began to enjoy his retirement as much as he had expected.

Advocacy for Depression