The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) states that major depressive disorder is one of the most common depressive disorders. To be diagnosed, the patient must have at least five symptoms that last for at least two weeks, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Treatment can reduce the severity of the depressive symptoms and uncover the cause of the disorder. Standard options include medication and therapy, though other options include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and a healthy lifestyle.
Medication
Antidepressants alter neurotransmitter levels, improving the patient's mood. The Mayo Clinic states that four groups of antidepressants are used for major depressive disorder: reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and atypical antidepressants. Reuptake inhibitors target particular neurotransmitters and prevent them from being recycled. Examples include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs). Tricylic antidepressants and MAOIs are older medications that are prescribed when a reuptake inhibitor is not effective. The last group of antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, do not fall into the other three categorizations of antidepressants; examples are trazodone and mirtazapine, which have a sedative effect. The NIH adds that lithium and thyroid supplements may be prescribed to enhance the antidepressants. If the patient has psychotic depression, a subtype of major depressive disorder, she may also take antipsychotic medications.
Psychotherapy
Talk therapy deals with the causes of the major depressive disorder, and it also teaches the patient coping strategies to prevent future depressive episodes. The NIMH states that two types of psychotherapy are effective with major depressive disorder: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). CBT works to change negative behaviors and thoughts into healthy ones. IPT is for patients who have relationships that contribute to his depression.
Electroconvulsive Therapy
The Mayo Clinic states that ECT is recommended for patients who do not respond to medication, cannot take antidepressants, are suicidal or pregnant. ECT works by triggering a seizure in the brain. An electrical current is transmitted from the electrodes to the brain, which reduces the symptoms of major depressive disorder.
Healthy Lifestyle
The NIH adds that certain lifestyle choices can decrease depression symptoms and be a supportive measure for the other depression treatments the patient is undergoing. For example, the patient should avoid alcohol and drugs, which can exacerbate the symptoms. Having strong relationships can create a support group for the patient. Other healthy lifestyle choices include eating well-balanced meals, getting daily exercise and enough sleep at night.
