Great question: There are different approaches. The traditional medicine recommends pills (antidepressants) and counseling. Both have been shown to work, with the medication approach being more effective. I find that a number of other interventions may be helpful such as light exposure (getting light box works), exercise, getting out of house, joining a gym, church, having good support group, resolving problems.
Answered 1/23/2012
6.1k views
Depression: Before you deal with any disease the following steps have to happen 1. You need to make sure you have the correct diagnosis. Board certified psychiatrist or any other physcian will make that diagnosis. Also licensed psychologist with the proper testing will be able to help 2. If depression is really there, you need to see what medication will work thru a simple genetic test done in any physicians.
Answered 12/18/2014
6.1k views
Depression: Depression is a complicated illness whose solution depends on the patient. There are 2 primary approaches to depression that are complementary, meaning that they can be used together or perhaps independently: psychotherapy and medication. Each patient should consult their doctor to decide which approach is right for them or if a combination is appropriate.
Answered 5/8/2016
6.1k views
Speak to Parents: Aside from that very SAGE FATHERLY advice that applies to any problem a daughter may be have, there is another reason for you to speak to your parents. Physicians on this network require PERMISSION by them before giving you medical advice if talking about something bothering you because you're a minor. Have them sign up for a FREE ACCOUNT then, they can pose any question on your behalf they like.
Answered 6/25/2015
2.7k views
Many options: If concerning yourself, suggest first talking with parents and family if possible regarding symptoms and concerns as well as a doctor. Always good to ensure family support. In general antidepressant medication and therapy are most formal and effective. Self management includes exercise, meditation, enhanced spirituality, and health habits (sleep, nutrition, and avoidance of alcohol and drugs).
Answered 6/25/2015
2.7k views
Therapy?: Have you yet tried any form of psychotherapy? Typically, the optimal combination of things to treat emotional issues such as dysthymia is medication (which, on your best day, is supposed to take the edge off symptoms) but the real gruntwork takes place in psychotherapist's consulting room.
Answered 7/2/2015
2.6k views
Depends: There are different types and degrees w/ different ways to handle this symptom. The best 1st step is a good evaluation by an expert - Clinical Psychologist are trained in this and can refer you to a psychiatrist if they find a condition w/ severity requiring medication. You've made a good start already asking the question as you did! I'm hopeful that you can take the right steps to feel much bette
Answered 5/28/2016
2.6k views
Seek treatment: Depression is an illness that needs treatment. It's important to see a mental health provider to assess the severity and come up with a treatment plan to start to feel better and experience pleasure and a happy life.
Answered 3/14/2016
1.5k views
Feeling Good: There are several types of depression. Reactive depression occurs as a result of loss and eventually we adjust. If one does not adjust or if the cause is not clear certainly seek professional help. "feeling good" by david burns is an excellent self-help book based on science. Don't let the thickness of it intimidate you. Take it bit by bit. The very best to you.
Answered 12/6/2017
452 views
You're on the way: Without knowing more about the depression and you, it's hard to be specific. But, in any case - just wanting to and believing that there is a way to deal with it makes it likely that you can be a winner. You may benefit from cbt, a training/practice program in anything you are interested in, meditation, exercise, whatever! a good therapist/doctor can help you decide if you would benefit from meds.
Answered 6/20/2020
5.1k views
Your Dr can assess: for mood disorder & causative underlying medical conditions. Talking therapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or insight oriented psychotherapy) is allows for lasting change. Psychiatric meds may be indicated. Don't isolate. Spend time w people. Use your support system. Get out. Get at least 8 hrs of sleep/ night & eat healthfully. Daily aerobic physical activity is a big +. Try acupuncture, tai chi
Answered 5/14/2016
2.8k views
See your doctor: You can first see your primary care physician for a thorough health review to make sure no other conditions exist that can feel like or worsen depression. Then you can see a psychiatrist and/or psychologist for treatment of your depression with psychotherapy and/or medications as needed. You can make sure you exercise, sleep, and eat healthily; reach out to others. Avoid alcohol ; other drugs.
Answered 12/1/2013
4.7k views
Depression: Consult with your doctor to rule out medical issues, if cleared ask for a referral to a mental health professional who specializes in treating depression. Depression is often treated successfully so give yourself the chance for a better life. Best.
Answered 5/26/2016
4.7k views
Start by seeing your: Doctor who can assess for a mood disorder ; check for underlying medical conditions that may be the cause of your symptoms. Talking therapy (cognitive behavioral therapy or insight oriented psychotherapy) is important for lasting change. Psychiatric medications may be indicated. Don't isolate. Spend time w people. Use your support system. Get out. Don’t allow yourself to stagnate at home. Get at.
Answered 12/11/2013
4.7k views
Depression help: Talk about feelings ; address problems. Don't avoid them. Aim for 7.5 - 8 hours of sleep/ night. Daily physical activity is optimal in a green space. Eat healthfully. Cut out junk carbs, caffeine ; alcohol (or moderate). Try qi gong, tai chi, acupuncture, acupressure, homeopathy, meditation, yoga, exercise program, deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation. Get psychiatric eval.
Answered 12/22/2013
4.7k views
Get professional : Help. Talk about feelings ; address problems. Don't avoid them. Aim for 7.5 - 8 hours of sleep/ night. Daily physical activity is optimal in a green space. Eat healthfully. Cut out junk carbs, caffeine ; alcohol (or moderate). Try qi gong, tai chi, acupuncture, acupressure, homeopathy, meditation, yoga, exercise program, deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation.
Answered 10/15/2016
4.5k views
DEPRESSION: Get an evaluation from a psychiatrist to help identify what depression means to you and whatever else may be bothering you. Consider recommendations for medication if any are given. Get a referral for a reputable psychotherapist to speak with. Meds and therapy combined are most optimal; no just one or the other.
Answered 3/16/2015
3.1k views
Feeling Good: There are several types of depression. Reactive depression occurs as a result of loss and eventually we adjust. If one does not adjust or if the cause is not clear certainly seek professional help. "feeling good" by david burns is an excellent self-help book based on science. Don't let the thickness of it intimidate you. Take it bit by bit. The very best to you.
Answered 5/4/2014
4.1k views
1-Lifestyle, 2-Meds: Lifestyle changes can be a powerful way to treat depression. Research shows that regular exercising (vigorously if your doctor approves) helps. Meditation has also been shown to help for some people. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy, has been shown to help. There are many different antidepressant medications also - consult your doctor.
Answered 4/12/2017
733 views
You can: start w a medical eval. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or insight oriented psychotherapy can help. Don't isolate. Spend time w people. Use your support system. Get out. Don’t stagnate at home. Get at least 8 hours of sleep/night & eat healthfully. Daily aerobic physical activity is a big +. Try acupuncture, tai chi, qi gong, yoga or meditation. Recommend the “Feeling Good Book' by Dr. David Burns.
Answered 2/28/2016
4k views
You can use: exercise and meditation to treat depression. You can use behavioral therapy such as talking sessions with a licensed psychotherapist or psychologist. You can take a medication designed to treat clinical major depression. You can pray. You can take a vacation and see some part of the world that gives you peace and hopefully answers to your questions. Or you can do a combination of these things
Answered 10/22/2019
426 views
Many ways: 1st get a good eval with PCP(r/o medical causes), work on cleaning up your diet-remove inflammatory foods(dairy, grains, sugar), exercise daily(walking best) develop a practice of meditation or mindfulness. Get a good MVI(True balance from Now) , take Essential fatty acids 3000mg omega 3 good to start, take a good probiotics. get counseling,consider psychiatrist If suicidal call 911 or goto the ER
Answered 3/14/2020
130 views
Get a counselor: Call PCP for good medical exam and labs to r/o medical causes, PCP can recommend a counselor to help you sort out priorities, regular routine of sleep exercise, meditation and eating, positive thinking addressing personal and other conflicts. referral to psychiatrist if indicated to consider med rx
Answered 9/17/2020
43 views
You can: start w a medical eval. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or insight oriented psychotherapy can help. Don't isolate. Use your support system even if at a distance. Get at least 8 hours of sleep/night & eat healthfully. Daily aerobic physical activity is a big +. Try acupuncture, tai chi, qi gong, yoga or meditation. Recommend the “Feeling Good Book" by Dr. David Burns.
Answered 9/17/2020
43 views
5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
A doctor has provided 1 answer
12 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
A doctor has provided 1 answer
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more.
Ask your question