Best Treatment For Depression
Depression is a disorder that affects your feelings, thoughts and actions. It can cause many problems in your daily life and in your relationships with others. It is a serious and life-altering condition that can be treated with medicines, psychotherapy or a combination of the two.
The best treatment for depression depends on the person’s needs. Medications are used to treat depression because they change the way your brain works, and they can help to improve symptoms such as low mood, loss of interest or sleep problems. There are many different types of antidepressants available, so it may take some time to find the right one for you.
Your doctor may also order blood tests and other diagnostic tests to look for a more serious illness, such as an eating disorder or another mental health problem. They will check your physical health and ask about any medications or treatments you have had in the past. They will also do a mental health assessment using the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders,” or DSM-5, which is the official guide for diagnosing mental disorders.
Genetics, environment and family history are known risk factors for developing depression. If you have a parent or sibling with depression, there is a 70 percent chance you will have it sometime in your life. Some other factors, such as a stressful or difficult job, chronic pain, medical illnesses, and some drugs can also increase your chances of developing depression.
If you or someone you know has depression, seek help from a trained professional as soon as possible. If left untreated, the disorder can lead to severe symptoms such as suicide and other dangerous behaviors.
Natural remedies are also an option for some people. Some people use acupuncture, herbs, or supplements to help with depression. However, these approaches may not work as well as prescription medication or talk therapy.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common type of therapy for depression. It helps you learn how to identify unhealthy thinking and behavior patterns and replace them with healthier ones. You can start with short-term therapy or continue it for months or years.
SSRIs and SNRIs are the most commonly prescribed medication for depression, but other types are also available. They can relieve symptoms by boosting your levels of certain chemicals in your brain. They include fluoxetine, paroxetine and sertraline.
Older antidepressants, such as tricyclics, tetracyclics and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are less often used. They can cause more side effects, but they can be effective for some people.
Drug interactions can also contribute to depression and can be a sign of a more serious illness. This is why it’s important to talk to your doctor about any drug or supplement you’re taking.
Depression can be debilitating and can lead to other health problems such as weight gain, poor concentration, sleeplessness, and anxiety. If you or someone you know has depression, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK to speak with a mental health professional.
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