Setting Goals

First of all you and your doctor should understand the cause of your depressive illness. This way you both can decide what you need and want to accomplish in the treatment of your depression.

• Therapy for depression may involve "talk" therapy, antidepressant medication, or a combination of the two.
• "Talk" therapy involves meeting on a regular basis with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other qualified psychotherapist to gain insight into your stresses and how to handle them.
• Antidepressant medications such as Prozac, Wellbutrin, Serzoe, etc., have very few side effects, making them both highly effective and easy to tolerate. An antidepressant may be prescribed to treat the biological aspect of your depression. Antidepressants can provide relief of depression within 3-4 weeks, and once your seritonins are stabilized, you may be able to deal better with the personal and social problems that helped cause the depression. If your doctor prescribes an antidepressant as part of your overall therapy, you should ask him or her:

• How the medication works.
• How long it takes before the medication begins to have an effect.
• What the possible side effects are.

Note: Antidepressant medications are not addictive, and you should not fear "getting hooked" when the medication is taken as directed.

Involving The Family

• The treatment of depression can often be enhanced when your family is aware of the nature of your illness and treatment. The everyday support and encouragement of loved ones can be very helpful.
• Your doctor or therapist may suggest that members of your family participate in family therapy with you. This should not be viewed as threatening, but as a positive step toward your recovery.

How Can I Help Myself?

Once you have been diagnosed with a depressive illness, and have begun treatment, the road back will be much easier if you follow these simple directions:

• Keep your appointments with your doctor.
• Always take your medication exactly as prescribed.
• Don't stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor first.
• If you are having thoughts about harming yourself or ending your life, call your doctor immediately.
• Do your best to get regular physical exercise.
• Avoid being alone too much. Share your feelings as much as possible with family members and friends.
• Postpone making any major life decisions until you're feeling better.
• Don't expect to get well overnight.
• Always treat yourself with respect and kindness.

Additional Information

This condition is sometimes called "Clinical Depression". The Marmostein Depression Scale and other tests used in the psychologist and doctor's offices are included in Dr Kryger's Practical Guide to Treating Depression. Topics include:

• Depression and Treatment, an Overview
• Neurotransmitters and Brain Function
• Diagnosing and Treating Depression
• The Pleasure Principal
• Treating Depression with the Herbal Remedy, St. John's Wort
• How to Modify Your Own Behavior