Unfortunately, in recent years, depression has become a widespread illness, especially among younger people. Sadly, many confuse sadness with depression, but it definitely goes far beyond that feeling.
Namely, depression, particularly chronic, can become so serious and severe that it can frequently negatively affect a person’s ability to normally function. This is especially the case with clinical depression.
According to the statistics, approximately one in six people in the United States is battling this condition. But are there any treatments for serious cases of depression? Fortunately, there are and today we’ll create a list of things that can be of huge help to those who are suffering from it.
The Best Treatments For Chronic Depression
Depression Counseling
There’s no denying that there are lots of benefits of depression counseling. Compassionate and inventive therapists at enhancehealthgroup.com want to accentuate the fact that therapy can help an individual identify and manage certain factors that cause this condition. This approach helps uncover various efficient coping mechanisms that will alleviate the symptoms.
How do you know if this type of therapy is necessary for you? Remember, that there are people who feel sad, stressed, and lonely from time to time. At the end of the day, all these sensations are experienced by practically every human being.
On the other hand, if you have a feeling like you’re depressed for more than one week, then it means you’re dealing with something that’s pretty serious, particularly, if it debilitates you and doesn’t allow you to properly function.
If that’s the case with you, then you should talk to your healthcare provider to see if depression counseling should be your next step. Bear in mind, that there are several factors that cause this mental illness. Now, how can you recognize if you’re suffering from chronic depression, or not?
- Feelings of constant sadness, emptiness, or loneliness
- Â Lack of excitement about anything in particular, not even seeing your favorite people, or attending an interesting event
- You oftentimes feel worthless and hopeless
- Lack of enough energy to do anything, even the least demanding tasks
- You cannot focus on anything
- Trouble falling asleep at night or struggling to wake up in the morning
- Have frequent thoughts about death or suicide
- Notice drastic changes in your diet
- Experience continuous feelings of irritation
Antidepressants As Another Great Option
Antidepressants are generally a good thing, especially when combined with therapy, however, if you decide to start taking them, it would be advisable to talk to your doctor first to see what’s at your disposal when it comes to this.
There are many antidepressants out there with various potential side effects that can affect you if you have a particular physical illness, or you’re already taking other medications. In these types of situations, you’ll most likely be offered an antidepressant called SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), because unlike many others, this one has fewer side effects, yet it’s equally effective.
On the other hand, there’s another medication called a non-reversible monoamine oxidase inhibitor and it can only be prescribed by a mental health professional. Keep in mind, that you shouldn’t be taking a medication called dosulepin because many reports have shown that it is associated with some heart-related problems. Besides antidepressants that were mentioned above, there are some others that are frequently prescribed, like:
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors like venlafaxine, or duloxetine
- Serotonin modulators such as trazodone
- Atypical antidepressants, for example, bupropion and mirtazapine
- Atypical antipsychotics and mood stabilizers are oftentimes combined with other antidepressants
- Tricyclic antidepressants, for instance, nortriptyline or amitriptyline
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, like selegiline or phenelzine
Anything Else That Should Be Added Below?
What If Antidepressants Do Not Work?
Occasionally, you may get the feeling like the medicine you’re taking isn’t working or has some serious side effects. If that’s what you’re currently experiencing, then give it some time to see if it truly isn’t helpful.
Keep in mind, that it takes approximately eight weeks to see any improvements. On the other hand, if you really do not feel better even after long periods of time, then it’s time to give other options a try. Fortunately, there are several medications out there that just might be helpful, such as:
- Ketamine or esketamine
- Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
- Other effective brain stimulation treatments
No matter how pessimistic or hopeless you may be feeling right now, as you can see, there are so many amazing options out there that are going to help you overcome this. Just don’t forget to seek help whenever you’re feeling down or depressed.
