Depression is a serious medical condition affecting your mental, emotional and even physical well being. MayoClinic.com says depression should not be considered a weakness or something to "snap out of." The condition often requires long-term treatment similar to other health conditions. A variety of factors may cause depression, including heredity, biochemical brain changes, stress and social isolation. The University of Maryland advises 80 percent of patients suffering from depression recover quickly and effectively if properly treated.
Step 1
Recognize the symptoms of depression. Identifying depression is one of the key aspects to treating the disorder. Identifying five or more symptoms of depression, which have been present for two or more weeks, is a sign additional medical help may be needed, reports the University of Maryland. Symptoms include persistent sadness, inability to sleep, decreased energy, irritability, excessive crying and difficulty concentrating.
Step 2
Seek professional psychological counseling or psychotherapy. Interview perspective counselors to determine education levels and experience with clinical depression. Know that a variety of different therapies exist from cognitive therapy to psychodynamic psychotherapy, explains MayoClinic.com. Visit with different types of counselors for a better understanding of specific types of therapy practiced before choosing one therapist to work with. Some patients may overcome depression with more success depending on the type of therapy and the specific personality of the therapist.
Step 3
Talk with a counselor about your feelings of depression and sadness to better understand the causes for the condition, recommends MayoClinic.com. Discover how to manage and identify problems, modify behavior, or explore experiences that caused depression during counseling sessions. Don't skip therapy sessions even if feeling better, warns MayoClinic.com.
Step 4
Consider taking medications to treat depression. Discuss different prescription options with your medical doctor. Taking medications to treat depression is not a requirement to overcome the disease. Finding the right medication and dosage takes some trial and error, according to MayoClinic.com. Never stop taking medications, even if they do not seem to be working. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and depression may worsen.
Step 5
Participate in exercise and increase daily physical activity to treat depression. Join a local gym, participate in a team sport, or simply take a daily jog around the neighborhood. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some studies show exercise to be as effective as psychotherapy.
Things You'll Need
- Medications
- Therapy
- Exercise plan
