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Depression Treatments and Symptoms
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Depression Treatments and Symptoms
Depression is a lifelong mental health condition that affects almost every aspect of your life. Although it can be difficult, depression is treatable. There are a variety of treatment options to help you get back to your life, including psychological therapies, medications, and lifestyle changes. It is important to seek treatment early. This can make a big difference in the success of your recovery.
Psychotherapy, also known as talking therapy, can be a good way to learn more about your symptoms and triggers. A trained therapist can help you set goals and replace negative behaviors with more positive ones.
Antidepressants are one of the most popular treatments for depression. They work by improving the way the brain controls its mood. The most common types of antidepressants are SSRIs and SNRIs. These medicines increase the amount of serotonin in your body. However, it is important to consult your physician before using any medication.
Besides antidepressants, other treatments include exercise and social support. If you are experiencing serious symptoms, a doctor may recommend electroconvulsive therapy. While this is not always effective, it can treat more minor cases.
Other types of psychological treatments include cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of therapy that aims to help people recognize and change negative thought patterns that contribute to their depression. In interpersonal therapy, a therapist will work with you to address issues with a family member or partner. You will be taught how to handle crises and understand how your actions and attitudes affect others.
You can also try self-help techniques on your own. A therapist can offer guidance, or you can do your own research online. Setting small goals and completing them will boost your motivation. And, once you have achieved your goals, you will be able to build on them to achieve bigger, more meaningful ones.
Getting adequate sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising can help to reduce symptoms of depression. Avoiding alcohol can also help. Remember, depression can last for months or even years. Try to establish relationships with friends and family.
Symptoms of major depression vary from person to person. Some sufferers experience intense feelings of sadness, loneliness, and hopelessness. Others may have trouble sleeping. However, these symptoms can be mistaken for physical illnesses, such as cancer.
Finding the best treatment for your situation will take time, but a qualified health professional can help. Most people with depression respond well to a combination of therapy and medication. Those who are pregnant should be careful with medications.
Another symptom to watch out for is thoughts of suicide. Suicide is a very dangerous and life-threatening activity, so it is important to seek help. Several organizations, including the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, and the Department of Health and Human Services, provide free educational materials and other resources.
If you or a loved one are considering suicide, contact the emergency room or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. You should also seek out the assistance of your faith community and other close friends.
