The National Alliance on Mental Illness states that major depression affects approximately 15 million Americans every year. It is the leading cause of disability among all medial illnesses in the United States, and its symptoms cannot go untreated. While it is not possible to prevent this disorder according to the Mayo Clinic, various treatments exist which make it possible for those who are diagnosed to control it and live normal lives.
Step 1
Receive a proper diagnosis. In many cases, major depression is undiagnosed. This is because depression itself is so common. Before you can expect your condition to improve, it is imperative to receive a proper diagnosis so that the right treatment plan can be devised.
To properly diagnose major depression, your doctor will typically perform a physical exam and blood test; this is to rule out any medical conditions that may be responsible for your symptoms and emotions. A psychological exam is then usually performed by a mental health provider. During this portion of your diagnosis process, you will be asked about your thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns. You may be asked if you have had any thoughts of suicide and whether or not these episodes have occurred in the past; if so, how often.
Step 2
Begin by taking medications. In many cases, doctors devise a treatment plan that combines medication with psychotherapy. The most commonly prescribed medication, according to the Mayo Clinic, is a class of drugs known as SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. They are considered safer and more effective than other antidepressants on the market, and include drugs such as fluoxetine, sertraline and escitalopram.
Finding the right medication for you can take eight weeks or more, and is considered a process of trial and error. This specific aspect of your treatment plan requires patience and faith on your part that the right medication, or combination of medications, will be found.
Step 3
Attend psychotherapy meetings. Psychotherapy, also known as psychological counseling, is generally a key component in your treatment plan. During your sessions, you learn about your condition while learning how to identify unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. Your therapist helps you learn coping techniques to apply when these thoughts and behaviors are recognized, thus allowing you to lead a happier, more normal life.
Step 4
Develop healthy sleeping patterns. Irregular sleeping patterns can be both the cause and result of major depression, according to the Depression Resource Center. These abnormal sleeping patterns are the result of the hormones serotonin and melatonin being produced at the wrong time of the day.
While serotonin is needed during the day for energy, melatonin is needed at night to help you sleep; when your production is off, your sleeping patterns become irregular and depression can set in. To help your body produce these hormones at the proper times, go outside each day for 30 minutes while the sun is out--this helps reset your internal clock and regulate your sleeping schedule.
In addition to sunlight exposure, maintain a regular sleep schedule, do not participate in any vigorous activities before bed and go to bed early; this allows your body to relax slowly and wake naturally.
Step 5
Watch for warning signs that may trigger a depressive episode. Over time you will begin to realize what your specific triggers are, which will help you identify them when they occur. Have a plan in place to help you through these moments. If your devised plan does not work and your symptoms become worse, call your doctor or therapist immediately.
