Depressive symptoms are more than just feeling blue from time to time. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression interferes with your life and hinders your ability to function normally. Depressive symptoms may require long-term treatment involving counseling and medications. Depressive symptoms may occur at the same time as other medical conditions, such as post-traumatic stress syndrome, anxiety disorders and substance abuse.
Symptoms
The National Institute of Mental Health states that the duration, severity and type of depressive symptoms vary from person to person. Symptoms may include prolonged periods of sadness, hopelessness and guilt. The person may be irritable, tired and have difficulty focusing. Sleeping and eating habits may be affected. The person may have thoughts of suicide or make actual suicide attempts.
Therapy
Therapy is an important part of treatment for depressive symptoms. Through sessions with a therapist, you'll talk about your feelings and try to find the root of your depression. The therapist will advise you on how to change the way that you think and how to cope when you are faced with feelings of depression.
Medications
According to the Mayo Clinic, several types of anti-depressants are used to treat depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as fluoxetine and citalopram, affect the chemicals in your brain to improve your mood and are typically recommended first by a doctor. Other anti-depressants that may be prescribed to treat depressive symptoms are serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Side effects will be monitored while on medications for depression. Potential side effects of anti-depressants include difficulty sleeping, headache, stomach upset, decreased sexual desire, sweating and dizziness.
Other Drugs
Combination drug therapies may be used depending on the type of symptoms you are demonstrating. Other types of medication types recommended include stimulants, anti-psychotic drugs and anti-anxiety medications.
Alternative Treatments
The Mayo Clinic states that there are several alternative therapies used to treat depressive symptoms. Supplements commonly used to treat depression, but not approved for this purpose by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration include St. John's wort, S-adenosylmethionine and omega-3 fatty acids. Acupuncture, meditation and massage are other alternative treatments for depression.
