Depression, as common as it may be, is not a one-size-fits-all illness. It takes on a variety of forms and its symptoms vary per person. For this reason, every person's plan of treatment will vary as well. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) states a variety of treatment options exist, however the most common including medication and psychotherapy. In addition, lifestyle changes may help.
Medication
A variety of antidepressants are available to treat depression, according to the Mayo Clinic. Each works differently, according to the chemicals in the brain they affect. The newer drugs, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are the medication of choice for most doctors states the Mayo Clinic. This is because they cause fewer side effects than the older antidepressants.
The purpose of these medications is to restore balance to chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine; when these chemicals become out of balance, symptoms of depression may occur. Older medications such as tricyclic antidepressants prove just as effective, according to the Mayo Clinic, however they have more serious side effects.
Therapy
The Mayo Clinic states that typically, the most effective treatment for depression includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy. The NIMH states that several types of psychotherapy can help those suffering from depression. Two of the most popular include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT).
CBT involves changing the negative thoughts and behaviors of those suffering from depression as a means of helping them recover from their condition, while IPT proves a better option for those who need assistance working through personal relationships that may cause or make their depression worse. The length of the sessions varies depending on individual needs.
Physical Care
Depression-guide explains that physical care remains just as important as medication and therapy. This includes following a healthy nutrition and sleeping plan, exercise and taking your medication as the therapist prescribes.
People Support
Another suggestion from Depression-guide includes gathering support from people who care about you. This can include your close friends and family members, your priest or minister or joining a support group for those suffering from depression. Whether you choose to undergo therapy or not, you may still have bad moments in between--during these times you will need people to support and encourage you.
Lifestyle Changes
When making lifestyle changes, examine what you do each day and determine how many of these activities feel like too much for you. It is important to start with small goals and to only accomplish the things that do not overwhelm you. Since depression causes negativity, the only way to replace these negative thoughts remains setting goals you can reach; these will help you feel good about yourself.
