Depression

What are the effective treatments available for depression?

A variety of effective treatment options exist for depression. The most widely used treatments include antidepressant medications, psychosocial therapies, or a combination of the two. Additionally, some self-care and alternative therapies may prove beneficial in alleviating depressive symptoms. The National Institute for Mental Health estimates 80% of people suffering from depression could derive substantial relief from effective treatment.

Antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and tricyclic medications (TCAs), regulate brain chemistry by elevating levels of up neurotransmitters. It may take several weeks for antidepressant medication to produce the desired effect.

Psychosocial treatment of depression includes behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, and interpersonal psychotherapies. These treatments aim at modifying the behavior, thinking process, or relationship or social skills of the depressed person. At times these remedies are used as an exclusive treatment for depression, but often they are used as an adjunct to antidepressant medication.

Self-care strategies for depression include the herb St.-John's-wort (Hypericum perforatum), relaxation techniques, exercise, and a variety of nutritional supplements. Some of these treatments may be used in conjunction with antidepressant medication and/or psychotherapy. The same measures may be used to thwart the development of depression. Exercise may safeguard people with no prior history of mood disorders from experiencing depression. Additionally, exercise may prevent the recurrence of depression in people with a history of depressive illness.

Alternative treatment of depression includes acupuncture. This method involves inserting needles into meridian points along the body. Electro-acupuncture uses a mild electric current applied through the needles. Inserted needles may help alleviate depression by stimulating the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals.