Last Updated on Sunday, 18 October 2009 21:55

Depression Diagnosis and Treatment

The first step in finding appropriate treatment is to visit a doctor, which is a very hard decision for a depressive person to make. This requires help and support from family and friends.

A doctor will help rule out causes such as a thyroid disorder that can also lead to symptoms of depression. If the doctor is convinced that there is no other illness then he will refer you to a psychiatrist.

A psychiatrist conducts a complete diagnostic evaluation. He or she will ask about any family history of depression, and a complete history of the symptoms - when they started, their duration, their severity, etc. Questions about the use of alcohol or drugs, and whether you are thinking about death or suicide, may also be asked.

Medication for Depression

Antidepressants work to normalize the imbalances in naturally occurring brain chemicals, the neurotransmitters. Some of these neurotransmitters are serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine.

The newest and most popular types of antidepressant medications are called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs, and Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). The older classes of antidepressants include tricyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

For all classes of antidepressants, you need to take the medication for at least three to four weeks before it is likely to exercise a full therapeutic effect. You must continue taking the medication for the time specified by your doctor, even if you are feeling better, in order to prevent a relapse of the depression. In addition, if one medication does not work, do not be disappointed. You need to be open to trying another.

Antidepressants may cause mild and usually temporary side effects in some people. Some of these side effects can last for a few days but then subside. If they persist, you should immediately notify your doctor.

Psychotherapy

Several types of psychotherapy can help depression. This form of treatment can last from 10 to 20 weeks, or longer, depending on your needs.

Two main types of psychotherapy are:

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): This teaches new ways of thinking and behaving, and helps you change a negative approach.

Interpersonal therapy (IPT): IPT helps you understand and work through troubled personal relationships.

For mild to moderate depression, psychotherapy may be the best treatment. However, for major depression or for certain people, psychotherapy may not be enough. In addition, psychotherapy does not rule out the need for medication. A combination of medication and psychotherapy can be beneficial in these cases.