What Are the Various
Treatments for Depression?
In today's day and age there are so many treatments for depression. They range from the traditional antidepressants we all know about to more natural, new age methods. More and mroe research is being done to determine what treatments are affective and what treatments are best.
With so many treatments to choose from, how do you choose the treatments for depression that are right for you?
No matter what you choose, treating a depressive disorder is important and the depression treatments you choose are paramount to living a full, happy life again.
A treatment plan should be developed after you've been properly diagnosed and should be done with the help of a mental health professional.If you have not been diagnosed yet, you might want to take a depression test and see if, indeed you might be depressed. Keep in mind, the test results are mearly another reference point and should not be used for diagnosis. Leave the diagnosis up to the professionals!
So, let's say you really are depressed. What treatment options do you have at your disposal? Treatments for depression come in many forms and its important to develop a strategy that will work best for you.
You may want to choose several strategies or rely on just one. It will depend on several factors. How serious is your illness? How long have you had the symptoms? Are you at risk of harming yourself or others? Have you been diagnosed with a depressive disorder in the past?
In my humble, professional opinion, treatment strategies for a depressive disorder should be multi-dimensional. When considering treatment options you should use a variety of strategies. Some strategies to consider include the following:
There are several other "modern" treatments for depression as well that include things such as the following:
And this is a short list of options!
You may also be interested in the Power of Positive Thinking. While it sounds so simple, it can make a huge difference.
Also, when considering the treatments for being depressed you should take into account not only how serious is is but look at that in conjunction with your own preferences. For instance, are you okay taking depression medications regardless of their side effects? Or are you more inclined to look for more natural methods to address your depressive disorder?
Your preferences should be discussed with your therapist so that they can be dialed into the equation. Together, you and your therapist, can come up with a treatment plan that will ensure a timely and succesful recovery.
Word of caution: I strongly recommend that you get properly diagnosed versus going to your family practitioner. Too often they just throw meds at you and that may not be the best treatment for you in the long run.
Whatever treatment you choose, you will feel better within just a couple of weeks of receiving treatment!
It amazes me how many people suffer day in and day out with depression when there are so many treatments for it available and at your disposal.
Over 70% of those suffering with a depressive disorder never seek help. So they suffer with it not knowing they can feel better in just couple of weeks. So congrats to you for being on this site and learning about your options! Taking this step is on more step closer to your recovery and your ability to live a happy, productive life again.
Our Depression Forums
If you are looking for some immediate support you might want to consider going to our depression forums. This is a place where people come together to help and be helped!
I also have a list of a variety of depression hotlines as well. Most, if not all, are available 24/7 and are there as a resource for you.
Related Articles
Inpatient Depression Treatment: An article that reviews the facts about inpatient treatment, what questions to ask when evaluating this as an option and how to make the decision
Depression Treatment Centers: An in depth look at treatment centers, what to expect and how to choose one.
What is the definition of depression: An in depth look at the real definition of a depressive disorder.
Exercise and Depression: How a simple change in lifestyle can help you combat the disease once and for all!
