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Emotional Health

Treatments and help

Depression is the most treatable of all emotional or mental illnesses. About 60-80% of depressed people can be treated successfully. Depending on the case, various kinds of therapies seem to work. Treatments such as psychotherapy and support groups help people deal with major changes in life. Short-term (12-20 weeks) "talk" therapies have proven useful. One method helps patients recognize and change the negative thinking patterns that have led to the depression. Another approach focuses on improving relationships with other people.

Antidepressant drugs can also help. These medications can improve mood, sleep, appetite, and concentration. There are several types of these drugs available. Drug therapies often take at least 4 to 12 weeks before there are real signs of progress and may need to be continued for 6 months or longer after symptoms disappear.

The first step to getting help with depression is to overcome any negative attitudes that might stand in the way. The subject of mental illness still makes many people uncomfortable. Some feel that getting help is a sign of weakness. Many people mistakenly believe that a depressed person can quickly "snap out of it" or that some people are too old to be helped.

Once the decision is made to get medical advice, start with your family doctor. The doctor will decide if there are medical or drug-related reasons for the symptoms of depression. After a complete exam, the physician may refer the patient to a mental health specialist for further examination and treatment. Be aware that some doctors may share some of the negative attitudes about depression and may not take the complaints seriously. Insist that your concerns be taken seriously or find a doctor who is willing to help.

If a depressed person refuses to go along with evaluation and treatment, relatives or friends can be reassuring. Explain how treatment will reduce symptoms and make the person feel better.

Don’t avoid seeking help because you are afraid of how much treatment might cost. Often, the problem can be solved with weeks -- not months or years -- of therapy or medication. Also, community mental health centers offer treatment based on a patient’s ability to pay.