Getting help for depression lets the light back in.
Like other diseases, depression persists independently from life events and is not something someone will simply "get over." Seeking treatment from mental health professionals is the way to get help, and this is best done early in the onset of depression. Unfortunately, an estimated 50 percent of people with depression never seek treatment. Recognizing symptoms and understanding treatment could help increase these percentages.
Serious Condition
Depression is painful, increases risk of suicide and is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (see Reference 3).
"Cure"
Currently there is no "cure"--complete and permanent remission--for depressive disorders. Fortunately, most of those who get adequate treatment feel better within weeks and can eventually experience remission of all symptoms (see Reference 1). In other words, if given the full scope of treatment, especially if caught early, patients have a very good chance of diminishing symptoms to the point where they disappear entirely--yet they might return, so monitoring is necessary.
Causes
It is difficult to determine the cause of depression because, most likely, a complex combination of genetic, biochemical and environmental factors contribute to risk and onset of depression. Given this complexity, symptoms rather than a clearly identifiable physiological condition define depression. Despite effective treatment, there is no clear physical indicator of a cure or even a clear indicator when treatment ends.
Types of Depression
The two most widely agreed upon types of depression are "major depression" and "dysthymia" (see Reference 2).
Feelings of sadness, or loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed lasting more than two weeks and accompanied by at least three of the following indicate major depression: low energy, difficulty concentrating and decision making, irritability and/or restlessness, eating disturbances, sleeping disturbances, and thoughts of suicide, hopelessness, worthlessness or guilt.
Dysthymia is a milder, more chronic form of depression where symptoms persist most of the day, more days than not, through a period of at least two years (see Reference 2).
Treament: Medications
Newer antidepressants (medications specifically designed to treat depression) are non-addictive and have fewer, milder side effects than older medications. Although it is not known exactly how they work, antidepressants aim at correcting the balance of brain chemicals. SSRI's (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), the most commonly prescribed antidepressants, include Prozac or Sarafem, Paxil, Zoloft, Celexa, Lexapro, and Welbutron or bupropion. Other antidepressants might inhibit norepinephrine and dopamine, or block chemical receptors.
Older antidepressants such as tricyclic (TCL) or MAOI's (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) antidepressants might be prescribed if the more recent medications are not effective.
Treatment: Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy ("talk therapy," "therapy," or "counseling") involves talking with a qualified mental health professional in structured settings.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), the most common form of psychotherapy treatment for depression, helps patients identify the negative thoughts and behaviors of depression and replace them with positive thoughts and behaviors. Other forms of psychotherapy involve a deeper understanding of the roots of the patient's depression as well as negative thoughts and behaviors.
Accompanying Treatment
Treatment might be more effective when accompanied by exercise, positive social connection and stress reduction. It is also helpful to avoid alcohol or other drugs, especially when taking antidepressants.
