Clinicians believe that depression are due to biological, social and psychological factors. Treatment that exclusively focuses on only one of these factors will not prove beneficial compared to treatment that addresses all aspects. Researchers are trying to completely grasp all the factors such as genetic, personal, societal and environmental, since depression is a complex disorder. It is really difficult to treat this problem while focussing only on one factor. Patients undergoing depression treatment must understand that the first line treatment may not prove effective for them and that the doctor may have to experiment with few depression treatments to determine what works for that individual.
Symptoms of Depression
Symptom of depression varies from individual to individual and it is not necessary that every person will experience same symptoms. The frequency, severity and duration of symptoms vary depending on the individual and his illness. Some of the common signs and symptoms of depression include:
- Loss of interest in life
- Anxious or empty feeling
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Decreased energy
- Guilt or helplessness feeling
- Insomnia
- Thoughts of suicide
The saddest part of depression is that most of the people suffering from depressive illness never seek treatment. This can result in worsening of their condition overtime. Majority of the people are not aware that even the most severe depression can get better with treatment. Psychotherapies and medications along with other methods can prove effective for the treatment of depression.
Treatment
Treatment for depression, like for most mental disorders, usually relies on psychotherapy and medication for the quickest and strongest effects. Treatment usually starts immediately after the initial clinical interview with a mental health professional. Depression treatment takes time and patience is required. It normally take 6-8 weeks on an antidepressant medications for one to see its effects. If the medication has not shown improvement, the physician may have to try 2 or 3 different medications before finding the one that works. The same may also be true for psychotherapy — the first therapist may not be the one you end up working with. Most modern psychotherapy treatment for depression takes 6 to 12 months, going once per week for 50 minutes at a time. Abilify is a commonly prescribed medicine for depression. This medication is often prescribed along with counselling to maximize the best therapy for the patient.