1. Get Accurately Diagnosed
The first step in seeking treatment for depression is to see a mental health professional who can accurately diagnose the problem and outline a treatment plan. Psychiatrists and clinical psychologists are well trained in psychological evaluations and treatment planning for mood disorders, although master's level counselors with experience can also be good options.
Though a diagnosis of depression may seem simple, there are several types of depression such as unipolar depression, Bipolar Disorder Types I and II, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Postpartum Depression. t is imperative that Bipolar Disorder Type I or Type II be ruled out when evaluating for depression because the wrong medications could induce mania or cause rapid mood cycling.
Some physical health problems such as hypothyroidism and the onset of Huntington's Disease can mimic depression. It may be necessary to see a general physician following initial psychological evaluation to rule out the possibility of any health problems which can manifest in the form of depression.
2. Consider Medication
Current research has suggested that antidepressant medication is only effective in reducing depression in approximately 50 percent of patients, and some individuals experience negative side effects such as weight gain and sexual dysfunction. Despite these figures, prescriptions for antidepressant medications are at an all-time high in the United States.
A psychiatrist is the best professional to see for psychiatric medication, although registered nurse practitioners can also be excellent options for consultation. Experienced psychiatrists can be located within private practices, community mental health centers, university counseling centers and Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital systems.
3. Consider Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the gold standard of psychological treatment for most types of depression. This type of therapy is different from "talk" therapy in that it systematically aims to identify and modify irrational thoughts in effort to decrease emotional discomfort. CBT can alleviate depressive symptoms by helping the individual identify and modify the thought patterns and behaviors that cause or maintain depression. Research on individuals treated for depression with antidepressant medication or CBT has suggested that it may produce changes in neural pathways within the brain similar to those produced by antidepressant medications.
Licensed clinical or counseling psychologists usually hold a doctoral degree in psychology and are the most highly trained professionals in conducting psychotherapy. Private practitioners, community mental health centers, university counseling centers and VA hospital systems are excellent resources for locating experienced psychologists. Such resources usually offer additional options such as group psychotherapy, couples counseling and family therapy.
4. Go Alternative
A growing number of consumers have become interested in natural alternatives to treat depression due to concerns about the long-term effects of antidepressant medications.
There are several popular natural alternatives for treating depression, although little research has been done to identify the recommended dosage for treating depression. For individual guidance, it may be helpful to contact a doctor of Naturapathy (N.D.) who specializes in mental health. St. John's Wort, a popular natural alternative used to treat depression, has been used by thousands of people in Europe for decades to treat depression and arthritis. Another natural alternative which is gaining more attention is SAM-e, which has shown promising results in treating depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and arthritis. The recommended dosage for addressing depression is a minimum of 800 mg per day, and it should be taken on an empty stomach.
5. Get Moving
Seeking treatment for mild to moderate depression does not always mean that modern medicine is the answer. Research has shown that antidepressant medication only works in approximately 50 percent of those who take it for depression.
Exercise is the healthiest, most cost-effective way to promote healthy mood. In some studies, it has been shown to be just as effective as antidepressant medications in treating mild to moderate depression without the side effects. During exercise, the body produces mood-boosting chemicals called norepinephrine and epinephrine, the body's natural painkillers. These neurotransmitters are chemical cousins of synthetic morphine, a popular painkiller, and are responsible the phenomenon known as "runners high." The proper intensity of exercise can improve mood, increase energy, improve sleep and cognition, decrease appetite, decrease chronic pain and increase overall vitality. Intense physical activity lasting at least 20 minutes, moderate intensity exercise lasting for 30 to 45 minutes, or low intensity exercise lasting 60 minutes can produce these mood-boosting effects and countless health benefits.
