Depression is very common among Americans, especially given the fast life they live. Though the treatment for depression is quite simple, it requires extra care and a little cheering up to help the patient come out of the problem. The cost of the treatment is no doubt expensive; but given the problem, everyone should take advantage of the various depression treatments that are available today to cure the problem.

Depression may be triggered by stressful life events, other illnesses, certain drugs or medications, or inherited traits. Although causes of depression are not entirely understood, we know it is linked to an imbalance in brain chemistry. Once the imbalance is corrected, symptoms of depression generally improve. Some researchers feel that severe depressions are caused by a physical defect in the body, such as a biochemical imbalance in the brain or other factors. Other things that have been linked to depression have to do with a person’s lifestyle.

Ginkgo Biloba is well known as an agent that will increase mental clarity and alertness. It also helps to support short term memory. Oxygen and blood flow to the brain is increased. Levels of Adenosine Triphosphate are also increased while free radicals are decreased which indicates that Ginkgo Biloba has antioxidant properties.

Doctors will prescribe a variety of drugs for the depressed patients. Often the side effects of these prescriptions leave the patients with a set of side issues to deal with, such as feelings of sleepiness, lack of clarity or mental focus and loss of libido

Naturopathic treatment for depression involves the determination of presence of heavy metals like mercury in the body, that may be causing depression. Ridding the body of these toxins would involve a detoxification program. Naturopathy also involves making nutritional adjustments like cutting down on saturated fats, alcohol, processed carbohydrates and hydrogenated oils.

Valerian Root is most commonly used to treat sleeping disorders that depressive people can experience. It has been proven that it reduces anxiety and stress and improves the quality of sleep. Some people experience digestive problems if they use it for a long period of time and some build up a resistance to its sedative quality and get the opposite result. Instead of feeling sedated, they feel stimulated.

Another depression natural treatment that is available is SAM-e which is also backed by scientific evidence . Although the research carried out isn’t as strong as that for St John’s Wort, what has been carried out is promising nonetheless. It also suggests that SAM-e offers certain advantages over both St John’s Wort and prescription antidepressants. The only disadvantage to this depression natural treatment is the cost since costing more than $100 or more per month, this is the most expensive of natural depression treatments which are available.

Hutch Peter

Author Bio

Read about Herbal Remedies. Also read about Asparagus and Female Libido Enhancer

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Let there be no doubt that depression is a serious mental illness that sometimes requires months and years of treatment on the road to a cure
. Each year, millions of people come to the realization that they suffer from depression. The situation becomes worse because only one third of those who suffer depression ever get treated. Because depression is considered a mental affliction, many sufferers shy away from seeking help from a doctor. Instead of being considered mentally ill, people try to manage the problem themselves. Depression is more common- place than you might think and it will not go away on its own.

Why do people get depression? The answer can get very complicated because you have to take many factors into consideration. The list is quite long. Let’s list a few of the contributing factors to depression. A chemical imbalance is widely considered to be the main cause for depression. This may be the case, but what causes that imbalance? Typically the causes stem from biological, genetic, physical, mental and environmental implications. There are those inflicted that never really determine what spurned their depression. Depression often follows diagnosis of other medical conditions, particularly those that result in imminent death or are chronic.

Another cause of depression can be the emotional pain felt after losing a loved one. In many cases the loss can be very traumatic. Some depression is brought on after years of physical, emotional or sexual abuse. When people abuse drugs and/or alcohol the result is often depression. The m

One of the major causes of depression is stress. In our lives many events and elements can cause stress. Some of that stress can even be related to positive events in our lives such as promotions, graduation or moving into a new house. People tend to stress when they face the unknown, like a new job or new financial obligations. When friends or loved ones come into conflict with an individual? a co-worker or loved one? the result is stress. There are a great number of people who are stressed from simply trying to perform their jobs to satisfaction and trying to support their families from week to week. By determining the cause, medical professionals have a much better chance of administering a treatment. If you or someone you love suffers from depression-please seek medical assistance.

gscott

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Learn more about Causes of Depression.

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Neurotransmitters are powerful chemicals that regulate numerous physical and emotional processes such as cognitive and mental performance, emotional states and pain response. Virtually all functions in life are controlled by neurotransmitters.

Interactions between neurotransmitters, hormones, and the brain chemicals have a profound influence on overall health and well-being. When our concentration and focus is good, we feel more directed, motivated, and vibrant. Unfortunately, if neurotransmitter levels are inadequate these energizing and motivating signals are absent and we feel more stressed, sluggish, and out-of-control.

Disrupted communication between the brain and the body can have serious effects to ones health both physically and mentally. Depression, anxiety and other mood disorders are thought to be directly related to imbalances with neurotransmitters.Some of the more common neurotransmitters that regulate mood are Serotonin, Dopamine, and Norepinephrine.

Serotonin imbalance is one of the most common contributors to mood problems. Some feel it is a virtual epidemic in the United States. Serotonin is key to our feelings of happiness and very important for our emotions because it helps defend against both anxiety and depression. You may have a shortage of serotonin if you have a sad depressed mood, anxiety, panic attacks, low energy, migraines, sleeping problems, obsession or compulsions, feel tense and irritable, crave sweets, and have a reduced interest in sex. Additionally, your hormones and Estrogen level

Dopamine and Norepinephrine are responsible for motivation, energy, interest, and drive. They are associated with positive stress states such as being in love, exercising, listening to music, and sex. These neurotransmitters are the one?s that make you feel good. When we don?t have enough of them we don?t feel alive, we have difficulty initiating or completing tasks, poor concentration, no energy, and lack of motivation. Low neurotransmitter levels drive us to use drugs (self medicate) or alcohol, smoke cigarettes, gamble, and overeat. For many years, it has been known in medicine that low levels of these neurotransmitters can cause many diseases and illnesses. A neurotransmitter imbalance can cause Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, irritable bowel, hormone dysfunction, eating disorders, Fibromyalgia, obsessions, compulsions, adrenal dysfunction, chronic pain, migraine headaches, and even early death.

What causes neurotransmitter dysfunction?

? Prolonged periods of stress can deplete neurotransmitters levels. Our fast paced, fast food society greatly contributes to these imbalances.

? Poor Diet. Neurotransmitters are made in the body from proteins. Also required are certain vitamins and minerals called ?cofactors? If your nutrition is poor and you do not take in enough protein, vitamins, or minerals to build the neurotransmitters, a neurotransmitter imbalance develops. We really do think and feel what we eat.

? Genetic factors, faulty metabolism, and digestive issues can impair absorption and breakdown of our food which reduces are ability to build neurotransmitters.

? Toxic substances like heavy metals, pesticides, drug use, and some prescription drugs can cause permanent damage to the nerves that make neurotransmitters.

? Certain drugs and substances such as caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, NutraSweet, antidepressants, and some cholesterol lowering medications deplete neurotransmitter levels leading to neurotransmitter imbalances.

? Hormone changes cause neurotransmitter imbalances

Testing is now available to detect Neurotransmitter Imbalances.

Basing a treatment on symptoms alone (traditional medicine) will not provide the information needed to address the underlying imbalance. A visit to a doctor or practitioners office for depression involves telling them how you have been feeling emotionally. The typical depressed person leaves the office with a prescription for an antidepressant without ever having any conclusive laboratory evidence of what is causing their symptoms. New sophisticated equipment and tests are now available to evaluate neurotransmitter imbalances using a urine or blood sample. This provides a neurotransmitter baseline assessment and is useful in determining the root causes for diseases and illnesses such as those mentioned above. Laboratory analysis can now provide precise information on neurotransmitter deficiencies or overloads, as well as detect hormonal and nutrient co-factor imbalances which influence neurotransmitter production. Individuals require individual solutions. Testing helps to determine exactly which neurotransmitters are out of balance and helps to determine which therapies are needed for an individualized treatment plan. It also helps in monitoring the effectiveness of an individual?s treatment.

Treatment

Nutrient therapies greatly increase the levels of neurotransmitters that a person has been found to be deficient in. Studies have shown that it is both safe and effective. These nutrients will cross the blood brain barrier into the brain where they will be synthesized into neurotransmitters and this will raise the number of neurotransmitter molecules needed by the brain. They are prescribed according to the results of laboratory testing giving the imbalanced person a more individualized plan of treatment.

Prescription drugs such as antidepressants do not increase the overall number of neurotransmitter molecules in your brain, they merely move them around or stop the breakdown. If your levels are too low to start with, medication may work initially, then ?poop out? or not work from the beginning. There is also the issue of side-effects and more recently the FDA warning that SSRI antidepressants could cause suicidal thoughts in some children, teens and adults.

There are specialized nutrient formulas which help antidepressant medications work more effectively. Under the supervision of a trained practitioner these treatments may be used in addition to the persons existing medication to boost their effectiveness or to target another neurotransmitter that is also causing symptoms. Many antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications just target one neurotransmitter but many mental health disorders involve multiple neurotransmitters.

Valerie Balandra ARNP

Author Bio

Valerie Balandra is a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and holistic health practitioner. Her website Integrative Psychiatry.Net focuses on ways to identify the cause of a chemical imbalance and provides natural treatments for depression and anxiety. http://www.integrativepsychiatry.net

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People Use The Word Depression Loosely To Mean A Number Of Different Moods.

I prefer to use the term “clinical depression” to distinguish the type of depression that may improve with medication. Clinical depression is more than the “blues” or sadness. It is not something a person can “just get over” or talk themselves out of. Clinical depression is at least partially based on brain biochemical imbalance (we are still in early stages of understanding this) and often runs in families. Stress and psychological factors also play an important role, although we do not fully understand the causes and factors that result in clinical depression.

Common Symptoms Of Depression Include:

· sad or irritable mood

· loss of interest / energy

· poor or excessive sleep and appetite

· difficulty with concentration and memory

· physical complaints

Types Of Depression:

There are four types of depression listed in the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM 4 TR). The intent of this manual is to help those in the mental health field make accurate diagnoses. One of its goals is to make the diagnosis more consistent between providers. Unfortunately it is often used haphazardly.

1. Adjustment Disorder With Depressed Mood: A reaction to a stressor. (Loss of a loved one, job, physical illness, move etc.) This type of disturbed mood is usually mild and self-limiting. When symptoms last longer than 6 months another type of depression should be cons

2. Dysthymia: A chronic low-level depression. It can be very debilitating and may be a part of the personality. It also can be difficult to treat with medication; therapy is recommended.

3. Major depression: A severe form of depression with multiple symptoms as described above. Medication is necessary and usually very effective. Therapy may be helpful after acute symptoms have abated. Suicide potential must be monitored. This can be severe enough to cause psychotic (loss of reality) symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations.

4. Bi-Polar 1 Disorder: A cycle of depression and elevation of mood (hypomania or mania). This can be very severe, with psychotic symptoms. Antidepressants may be avoided due to risk of switching the mood to mania. This condition needs expert psychiatric treatment usually with mood stabilizing medication. (By the way there is a significant amount of confusion and disagreement about this diagnosis especially between Bipolar 1 and Bipolar 2 disorders. Bipolar 2 disorder is less severe and medication is often not necessary.)

Differential Diagnosis (problems that may be confused with depression)

· hypothyroidism (low thyroid)

· grief

· substance abuse

· chronic pain

· anxiety

· side effects of medication

Target Symptoms Of Depression:

Identifying and describing specific target symptoms is crucial if treatment is to be monitored and its’ effectiveness evaluated. It is easy to forget how severe symptoms were when depression is resolved. The more specific the target symptoms are, the better to keep track of changes. Some examples of target symptoms are listed below.

· sleep disturbance (difficulty falling or staying asleep, awakening often during the night, early morning awakening, oversleeping)

· concentration / memory problems

· low energy level

· irritability

· physical symptoms

· change in appetite (decreased or increased)

· lack of motivation / interest

· mood changes (sadness, anger hopelessness)

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (Ssris) The Most Commonly Used Antidepressants.

SSRIs have been on the market for over 20 yrs. They increase levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a substance that allows chemical activity in the brain (neurotransmitter). Serotonin is known to play a role in depression and anxiety. SSRIs are used for treatment of depression, anxiety, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and occasionally other illnesses. (Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, pain). SSRIs have much fewer side effects than the older antidepressants (tricyclics such as Elavil); they are not as lethal in overdose, and work well for most people. They are much more expensive then tricyclics. All SSRI’s are effective although side effects may differ somewhat. Because individuals are different, some may react more positively to one particular medication then to another. Choosing between the SSRI’S is usually dependent on the side effect profile (see below), and the prescriber’s and patient’s preference and experience. They are usually the first choice in depression and often the first choice in anxiety disorders. With anxious patients it is helpful to start low and increase the dose slowly in order to minimize the side effect of activation. Anxious patients can be very sensitive to this side effect. Higher doses of medications are often needed in Obsessive Compulsive disorder and Panic disorder.

1. Prozac TM (fluoxetine)

This may be more activating initially. It has a long half-life and therefore stays in the system longer. Once a day dosing is usual; recently Prozac introduced a once a week dose.

2. Paxil TM (paroxetine)

May be more calming initially, weight gain can be a problem. Once a day dosing is the norm.

3. Zoloft TM (sertaline)

May have fewer interactions with other medications. Weight gain may be a problem. May cause more stomach upset and diarrhea. Once a day dosing is the norm.

4. Luvox TM (fluvoxamine)

Sometimes used for OCD, multiple dosing. Not used frequently in US. Needs higher doses that may cause drowsiness.

5. Celexa TM (citalopram)

Said to be “more” selective for a particular type of serotonin and therefore thought to have less side effects and interactions. May have less weight gain. Once a day dosing is the norm.

6. Lexapro TM (escitalopram)

Similar to Celexa some feel it was manufactured because the patent on Celexa was running out. Said to work quicker then the other SSRIs.

Side Effects – SSRI’s

Most SSRI’s have similar side effects. Some patients do better on one than on another. This cannot be determined before a trial of the medication is given.

· Nausea is a common problem. Taking the medication with food helps and this side effect. It usually passes in time.

· Headache is usually mild and goes away with time (about one week) if it continues it may be necessary to change medication.

· Activation or sedation: patient can feel either activated (hyper, jittery) or sedated. Patients with anxiety / panic are more likely to feel activated. To avoid this start with a low dose and increase as tolerated. Sedation will often disappear with time but occasionally a change in medication is necessary.

· Sexual dysfunction can be a significant problem with some antidepressants. Use may result in decreased sexual interest or ability. Most common treatments for sexual dysfunction include: drug holidays (holding the drug for one or two days once the patient is stable, (cannot be done with Prozac due to staying in the body longer), changing medication, or using an additional medication. (Some such drugs include: Periactin, Amantadine, Yohimbine, Ginkgo others. All have only limited success.) Talk to your prescriber if this is an issue for you.

· Weight Gain can be a problem that is often not taken seriously enough. Weight gain may start after you have been on the medication for a while. It may be necessary to change to a different antidepressant.

· Agitation / Aggression/ There has been some anecdotal reports about patients becoming more aggressive on SSRIs. The research does not support this. However, that concern should be taken seriously, and attempts made to avoid a drug the patient is concerned about. The same is true about the reports of increased suicide.

Other Antidepressants

These drugs are thought to affect a number of neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, nor-epinephrine being the major ones.)

1. Wellbutrin TM (buproprion)

This should not be used in patients with a history of seizures. Said to cause less sexual dysfunction and weight gain. Now has a sustained release formula but still is usually given twice a day. This is the same drug as Zyban, which is used for smoking cessation. Obviously, they should not be used together.

2. Trazodone

This is not a very effective antidepressant; it is however very helpful for sleep and may be used in low doses for anxiety. It should be used in caution with men due to

possible priaprism (This is an involuntary erection that in the worst case may not go away).

3. Effexor XR TM (venlafaxine HCI) Is thought to have fewer interactions. Less weight gain and sexual dysfunction

4. Remeron TM (mirtazapine)

Is said to have less sexual dysfunction and fewer interactions. Weight gain can be a problem. Used at lower doses (15 mg) this is a good sleep aid, but is not powerful enough to be an antidepressant. At higher doses no longer specifically helpful with sleep.

5. Tricyclics

This is an older class of antidepressants that are no longer the first choice. They can have severe side effects including sedation, weight gain, effects on the heart, and drug interactions. These drugs are used in anxiety, depression and some pain syndromes. They are much less expensive than SSRI’s. These drugs are lethal in overdose! ( IE.: amitriptyline, nortriptyline, desipramine)

6. MAOI’S (monoamine oxidase inhibitor)

These are another older class of antidepressants with many dietary restrictions and interactions. Not currently used very often. (I.e.: Nardil TM, Parnate TM)

Herbs & Supplements For Depression

How herbs and supplements work is not fully understood, but they have been used for thousands of years. They can be potent and should be used with care. They should not be mixed with other medications for anxiety or depression. You should let your health care provider know if you are considering taking supplements.

Research on supplements has been conducted in other countries for many years. In the US research has been slow due to the fact that pharmaceutical companies (who sponsor most research) don’t see them as a moneymaker. This is changing however, and there is some research underway. Pharmaceutical companies are now starting to manufacture prescriptions forms of some supplements. Some of the outcomes of herbal research have been contradictory, and more studies are needed. There are a number of supplements advertised for use in depression and anxiety, the following are the most well studied and most commonly used.

· Omega 3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

Some of the research on fish oil is truly remarkable. It indicates that it may be just as effective as antidepressants in treating depression. The research was done using 4000mg a day of fish oil.

· SAM-e

S-Adenosylmethionine is a compound found in all living tissue, and is concentrated in the liver and brain. There have been a number of studies that have shown its effectiveness in depression. It is also used in hepatitis and arthritis. There have been no side effects or interactions with other medications found. SAM-e uses B12 and folate in its lowering of homocysteine levels. It is therefore suggested that adequate levels of folate and B12 be assured when taking SAM-e. The dose of SAM-e is between 800 and 1600 mg a day to treat depression. It is expensive, and many pills may need to be taken to obtain a sufficient dose. Research in the US is needed. Studies in other countries have been very favorable. (Benjamin, 2000)

· St. John’s Wort

Used for mild to moderate depression. The mechanism of action is unclear, some think it works like an SSRI or MAOI. The dose most commonly suggested is 300 mg, (standardized to .3% hypercin) three times a day. Side effects are usually mild but may include photosensitivity, emotional vulnerability, itching, and fatigue and weight increase. Alcohol, tyrosine, narcotics, amphetamines, and over the counter cold and flu remedies should probable be avoided to be on the safe side. It interacts with drugs for HIV, and some other medications that are metabolized by the liver (as many other drugs do also). The research on St. John’s Wort has been generally favorable (Muskin, 2000) with one recent study questioning its effectiveness.

· Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo is used for resistant depression in elderly, early Alzheimer’s disease, impotence, cerebral vascular insufficiency and peripheral circulatory disorders. Ginkgo should be standardized to 6% terpene lactones, 24% ginkgo flavones glycosides. The suggested dose for prevention is 120-160 mg a day in divided doses. Up to 240 mg a day may be used in Alzheimer’s or resistant depression. Side effects have not been reported. May be helpful for sexual dysfunction with SSRIs. This will thin your blood and increase blood flow, should be stopped a few days before surgery. There are over 400 published studies with Ginkgo in studies of circulation. (Brown, 1998)

Issues With Herbs & Supplements

Herbs have been used worldwide for many years. Although they are thought to be “natural”, remember, allergic reactions, side effects and interactions with other drugs/herbs/supplements are possible.

There is a lack of standards in manufacturing and often it is difficult to know exactly what you are getting or how it has been processed. Name brands you are familiar with should be used.

Some Herbs can be dangerous (as can some medications). Read and understand labels, the active ingredient should be “standardized” although this is no guarantee.

Herbs may have interactions with other drugs, side effects and possibly dangerous effects on pregnancy. They should be considered seriously, and researched carefully before use. Under dosing is also a common problem, (both with medication and herbs) as is not giving herbs in a sufficient dose or enough time to work.

Cost is a factor as herbs can be expensive and are not covered by insurance.

Combination herbs should be used with care and only if one is sure of the dosage of all ingredients.

Drug / Herb Interactions

Drug interactions can be a problem with any medication and some herbs. Herbs should not be mixed with drugs for the same condition. Information is being discovered at a rapid rate about interactions. There is much we have to learn and caution is advised in the use of herbs. Discussion with health care providers who are knowledgeable or at least open to these ideas can helpful. If your health care provider is not willing to consider and be open to learning about herbs perhaps you should consider a change of provider.

Some people may be slow metabolizes and need lesser doses.

Over the counter drugs should be used with care when taking herbs.

Grapefruit Juice has been found to interact with many drugs, and probably herbs.

Caffeine may interact with some drugs and herbs.

Alcohol should not be mixed with most medications and some herbs.

Helpful Hints For Prescribers And Patients When Using Medications / Herbs

· A full trial is crucial of medications, and supplements is important and often not done. This means a full dose should be prescribed for a sufficient length of time.

· There is some information that indicates frequent starting and stopping antidepressant medications may lead to ineffectiveness.

· Monitor target symptoms in order to determine effectiveness.

· Change one medication at a time in order to clearly identify the effect of each one.

· Consider cost and the patient’s insurance

· There is less suicide risk by overdose when using SSRI’s then tricyclics.

· In anxious patients start low; increase slowly (but not too slowly, in order to avoid discouragement due to length of time needed for improvement)

· Understand and consider side effects when choosing a medication. This will help to know what to expect, reduce anxiety, and decrease early discontinuation.

· The first treatment for depression should be 8-12 months in length, and there is a 50% relapse rate after that. A second treatment regimen should last 18 months and has a 70% relapse rate. After this medication may be needed for life.

· Try to avoid unrealistic expectations about medications.

· If you medical provider is not willing to talk with you about these issues, perhaps you should seek a new one!

· Always tell your health care provider when you are taking supplements of any kind!

References:

Benjamin, S. (2000). Cam Spotlight SAM-e For Depression and More? Patient Care for the Nurse Practitioner March, 22-26.

Blumenthal, M. Goldberg, A. Brinckmann (Eds). (2000) Herbal Medicine, Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Integrative Medicine ommunications.

Brown, D. (1998) Phytotherapy, Herbal Medicine meets Clinical Science. Bothell, Washington: Bastyr University, Continuing Professional Education Program

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-IV-TR (Text Revision) (2000) American Psychiatric Association

Physicians Desk Reference (2006) Thompson Healthcare.

Keegan, L (2001) Healing with Complementary & Alternative Therapies. New York: Delmar.

Muskin, P. (2000) Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Psychiatry, Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.

Virginia J. Duffy PhD Psychiatric NP

Author Bio

Virginia Duffy PhD, is a Psychiatric NP with over 30 years experience working with people in the mental health field.
Dr. Duffy is a teacher and a professional speaker who has presented nationally and internationally on numerous mental health topics.
Her recent book ?Behavioral First Aid: Managing Emotions During Emergencies? has received excellent reviews. Learn more about crisis and crisis intervention, read jargon free articles on a variety of mental health issues, ask questions, read more about Dr. Duffy’s book, and sign up for “2 minute Emotional Health Tidbits” at her website WWW.PsychSense.com

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Everyone becomes down or sad at times. Life events, or just small things or a bad day can sometimes make us upset. But when a person experiences constant feelings of sadness and irritability, is exhausted with little or no activity, decreases in social activity or participating in usually enjoyable activities, that person maybe depressed. If you or a loved one have these symptoms, you need to know some important facts. Keep reading…

Symptoms of a depressed person

Symptoms of a depressed person include low self esteem, changing or irregular sleeping patterns, or spending lots of time thinking about things that have gone wrong. At this point in time there is no one known cause for depression, however some theories and studies indicate that severe cases of depression stem from events such as financial problems, relationship troubles, or the loss of a loved one.

Causes of depression

Sometimes the person’s depression may stem from a trouble childhood or family conflict, especially ones that have to deal with parenting issues or between parents. Other times it could be a completely spontaneous mental problem that arises from seemingly nothing.

Who are prone to suffer from depression?

Women are twice as prone to depression as men. Women deal with more hormonal factors that give them a predisposition to becoming more likely to be depressed. Factors such as menstrual cycle, miscarriages, premenstrual syndrome and menopause all contribute to the increase in likelihood of a woman becoming depressed. Outside stressor

Diagnosing and treatment for depression

Although there is no conclusive tests to diagnose depression, a good assessment of a person’s family history or inquires involving physical or chemical abuses that may contribute to the patient’s current mood. Once a diagnosis of some form can be completed most doctors will attempt to treat the depression with medications therapy or a combination of both. The importance of treatment should be stressed as a person who goes without treatment may experience continued negative affects in normal daily functioning, or even violence. Suicide attempts or trying to hurt someone else are all possibilities if the illness is gone untreated for too long. Treatments are usually a combination of drug therapy and professional counseling that requires immense family support. Anti-depressive drugs may be prescribed and have proven to be very successful in the treatment of depression. The family’s support of the person who is coping with symptoms of depression is vitally important to recovery. Expressions of love, appreciation and normal communication should be the role of the family in the treatment of the person experiencing a depressive state. Other treatments are simple and only require adequate sleep, regular exercising, avoiding illegal drugs and alcohol, and eating a healthy diet. Depression is a serious problem that can be treated effectively if caught before severe depression has began to set in. Take the steps now to prevent serious or fatal consequences if you think that you or someone you know is depressed.

If you are feeling depressed yourself, then you should take action. You may have something stressful in your life. If so, remove it. Our time on life is short, and there is no reason why anyone should spend their precious time worrying about something.

Nelly Sanders is a writer specialized in health related topics. Read my lens on Anxiety and Depression: http://www.squidoo.com/anxiety-and-depression-1 Download my recommended ebook on Anxiety and Depression

Nelly Sanders

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