Depression results in significant social dysfunction and economic impairment among those affected. Without prompt intervention, this mental illness has the potential to lead to death (usually through suicide). There are a number of therapies available and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual. In this article, we will explore some of the options of depression therapy Bethesda residents can access.
If one has symptoms that suggest that they are depressed, there are a number of things that they need to do so as to get the treatment that best suits them. It is important that they take time to understand their illness as much as possible with regard to the pattern of symptoms, severity and whether or not there is any underlying medical condition. If the latter is the case, then treating the condition effectively cures the mental illness.
For the mild cases, the starting point is lifestyle changes. Some studies have concluded that physical exercise is as effective as medication in the management of the problem. Regular physical exercise has been shown to boost the secretion of important body chemicals that include serotonin and endorphins. There is enhanced growth of new brain cells and connections (just as happens when medications are used).
Other modifications that can be undertaken include having enough sleep, reducing stress and proper nutrition. The meals should be well balanced with complex carbohydrates to keep the energy levels high. This helps to avoid mood swings that would worsen the condition. Sleep deprivation flares symptoms and may cause recurrence even after cure has been achieved. Aim to have a minimum of seven hours of sleep every night.
In the event that the symptoms fail to abate with lifestyle changes, the next step is to see your doctor. One of the things that your doctor will attempt to do is to rule out any medical conditions which may mimic depression. Hypothyroidism is a common differential diagnosis among persons considered as having depression. Another frequently encountered cause is drug interactions especially in older patients taking multiple medications concurrently.
Once a diagnosis of depression has been confirmed, the main treatments that can be administered are therapy and antidepressant medication. These treatments may be administered singly or in combination with other modalities. Various forms of therapy exist. They all are based on helping the patient establish the root cause of their problem and to gain some insight on the magnitude of their problem and how to handle it.
There are a number of pharmacological agents that are used. The main ones are those that belong to the class of tricyclic antidepressants. They include amitriptyline, doxepine and amoxapine. These drugs are mainly used for managing moderate and severe symptoms. Their main side effects include constipation, blurred vision and a dry mouth. Other groups of drugs also used in managing severe symptoms include moclobemide, citalopram, fluvoxamine and lithium salts.
It should be noted that depression is usually treated for a long period of time. There is a need for commitment by the doctor and the patient. Getting the appropriate form of treatment often involves trial and error. It has been shown that the most optimal therapy is attained through the combination of various treatment options.
If one has symptoms that suggest that they are depressed, there are a number of things that they need to do so as to get the treatment that best suits them. It is important that they take time to understand their illness as much as possible with regard to the pattern of symptoms, severity and whether or not there is any underlying medical condition. If the latter is the case, then treating the condition effectively cures the mental illness.
For the mild cases, the starting point is lifestyle changes. Some studies have concluded that physical exercise is as effective as medication in the management of the problem. Regular physical exercise has been shown to boost the secretion of important body chemicals that include serotonin and endorphins. There is enhanced growth of new brain cells and connections (just as happens when medications are used).
Other modifications that can be undertaken include having enough sleep, reducing stress and proper nutrition. The meals should be well balanced with complex carbohydrates to keep the energy levels high. This helps to avoid mood swings that would worsen the condition. Sleep deprivation flares symptoms and may cause recurrence even after cure has been achieved. Aim to have a minimum of seven hours of sleep every night.
In the event that the symptoms fail to abate with lifestyle changes, the next step is to see your doctor. One of the things that your doctor will attempt to do is to rule out any medical conditions which may mimic depression. Hypothyroidism is a common differential diagnosis among persons considered as having depression. Another frequently encountered cause is drug interactions especially in older patients taking multiple medications concurrently.
Once a diagnosis of depression has been confirmed, the main treatments that can be administered are therapy and antidepressant medication. These treatments may be administered singly or in combination with other modalities. Various forms of therapy exist. They all are based on helping the patient establish the root cause of their problem and to gain some insight on the magnitude of their problem and how to handle it.
There are a number of pharmacological agents that are used. The main ones are those that belong to the class of tricyclic antidepressants. They include amitriptyline, doxepine and amoxapine. These drugs are mainly used for managing moderate and severe symptoms. Their main side effects include constipation, blurred vision and a dry mouth. Other groups of drugs also used in managing severe symptoms include moclobemide, citalopram, fluvoxamine and lithium salts.
It should be noted that depression is usually treated for a long period of time. There is a need for commitment by the doctor and the patient. Getting the appropriate form of treatment often involves trial and error. It has been shown that the most optimal therapy is attained through the combination of various treatment options.
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