WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT WAYS TO TREAT DEPRESSION? WHAT HARVARD HEALTH PUBLISHING AND MORE DOCTORS THINK.

Answered by Dr. Nancy Anoruo

M.D. Faculty - Harvard Medical School · 5 years of experience · USA

The most helpful treatment is a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed first. They include fluoxetine, sertraline, paroxetine, citalopram and escitalopram. Other effective antidepressants include bupropion, venlafaxine, mirtazapine and duloxetine. A number of psychotherapy techniques have been demonstrated to be effective. A technique called cognitive behavioral therapy is designed to help a depressed person recognize negative thinking and teaches techniques for controlling symptoms. Psychodynamic, insight-oriented or interpersonal psychotherapy can help depressed people to sort out conflicts in important relationships or explore the history behind symptoms. Options for severe or persistent depression despite the usual medications include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), ketamine and transcranial medical stimulation.

Answered by Dr. Anuvitha Kamath

MBBS · 3 years of experience · India

Depression is a state or mental health condition where there is tension or worry caused by an unpleasant situation. People with this condition develop symptoms like suicidal tendencies, repeated nightmares, anxiety, substance abuse, avoiding social life, sleeplessness, and negative thoughts about themselves and the world. In such cases, strong emotional support and good counseling will help them recover from depression. The treatment for this condition mainly lies in psychotherapy and counseling. Behavioral therapy and cognitive and exposure therapy also play a major role. In severe cases, medicines like antidepressants, and anti-anxiety drugs can be used. Strong emotional support helps in a quick recovery. It can also be managed through regular exercise, yoga, and meditation.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to depression.

Answered by Dr. Mayank Saxena

Doctor of Medicine (MBBS) · 1 years of experience · India

The best way to treat depression is by taking medications. Psychotherapy or behavioral therapy can also be helpful in addition to antidepressants for some patients. Other ways by which one can be relieved from depression is by keeping himself/herself busy physically, being socially active and talking to close friends or relatives about the cause of depression.

Answered by Dr. Marcelle Freire

Doctor of Medicine · 3 years of experience · Brazil

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by symptoms such as sadness, lack of energy, irritability, or sleep disturbances (among many others). It is one of the most common psychiatric disorders today. Its first-line treatment includes the use of antidepressant drugs associated with psychotherapy.

What are people curious about?
Depression test	Crohn's disease medication brands
Doctors who treat crohn's disease	Rheumatoid arthritis

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors, and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns.

2024-04-19T14:03:37Z dg43tfdfdgfd