Treatment for Depression
It is important that a person recognise the fact that any symptoms that they are experiencing may be due to depression. The knowledge that depression is a known illness may help them to seek the help they require.
Seeking help is particularly important when the symptoms have a physical effect. It will also enable the suffer to realise that they are not 'going mad', but are experiencing common physical aliments. Openly discussing problems with loved ones may also help them to understand the difficulties that the sufferer is facing.
Talking it through
Sharing ones feelings my be enough in cases where depression is mild.
The more severe the depression, the more difficult it might be to
discuss the issues. Often once the ice has been broken, the process of
talking things through will get easier. Occasional the individual
might find it easier to task to an objective professional (GP,
counsellor or psychologist) who has the added benefit of being a
stranger.
Often the root of depression lies in a specific area e.g. marital problems, childhood abuse etc. In such cases it may be beneficial to seek support from the associated agency or self help group. .e.g. Relate deals with marital/sexual issues. Your GP will be able to advise you and refer you to a national/local organisation if required.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are commonly prescribed to individuals who are suffering
with depression. They work by relieving the symptoms of depression, but
are unable to address the circumstances that cause it. Approximately two
in three people obtain effective relief from antidepressants. Relief
comes in the form of improving the suffers mood, sleep and level of
concentration; thus allowing them to operate normally. It also increases
the likelihood that they will be able to deal with the problems they
face.
Unlike tranquillisers, antidepressants are not believed to be addictive, although there has been speculation on whether or not this is true in 100% of cases. Antidepressants take effect slowly over two-four weeks as their effect on the body builds up. For this reason it is important that patients finish the course of medication that they have been given and not give up if they can't feel the effects after a day or two. It is also important to finish the full course (which may last a few months) as ending it quickly can result the return of the depression. A GP will help the patient slowly come off them, when their treatment no longer requires it.
St John's Wort (hypericum) (available over the counter at pharmacies) - is a herbal antidepressant used to treat mild to moderate depression. A study found 250 mg hypericum extract taken once daily, was as effective as a full dose of imiprarnine (a commonly prescribed antidepressant). The side effects of antidepressant usage were also reduced (not eliminated). It is now a popular initial treatment. Like other antidepressants it takes time to work (as detailed above) and should not be used with other medication without first consulting a GP.
Referrals
The majority people with depression are treated by their GP. However,
others are referred to a psychiatric team if their depression is severe or
if they are not responding satisfactorily to treatment. Most psychiatric teams
comprise of psychologists, psychiatrists, specialists nurses and
occupational therapists. This team is able to provide specialist
counselling, psychotherapy or medication as appropriate.
