Relationships and Major Depression

Social Support from Many Sources

All relationships are different, and each one serves a different purpose in your life and in your depression recovery. "Not every friend will provide everything you need" says Morton J. Mendelson, psychology professor at McGill University. Friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers provide social support on an informal and ongoing basis. When you need more formal or structured support to help you get through depression symptoms or make progress in overcoming depression, you'll want to turn to members of your healthcare team -- such as counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, clergy, or therapy or support groups.

Next: Different types of support...