Can you treat depression? Nearly 21 million adults have had at least one major episode of this common mental illness, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). If you're one of the many Americans with a depression diagnosis, take a look at what you need to know about depression management and your treatment options. 

What Is Major Depressive Disorder?

Unlike the periodic sadness that everyone experiences at some point in their life, people with depressive episodes typically feel deeper or lingering negative emotions. These feelings can get in the way of normal everyday activities, such as work, school, or social events. 

Adults with a depressive diagnosis (major depressive disorder) may find it difficult to maintain relationships, have angry outbursts, feel intense irritability, lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, experience fatigue or restlessness, lose or gain weight, have an increased or decreased appetite, feel worthless, or have unexplained physical/medical issues. Severe depressive disorder may cause suicidal thoughts or cause the person to harm themselves.

Should a Doctor Diagnose This Mental Health Condition?

You will need a diagnosis before you treat major depressive disorder. If you think you may have this condition or your friends, family, or loved ones have concerns about your mental health, contact a licensed, qualified professional as soon as possible. Psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, therapists, and counselors can help people with this mental health disease. After a medical or psychological professional evaluates your symptoms and provides a diagnosis, you can take the next step toward symptom management and treatment.  

Is This Condition Treatable?

Yes, you can treat this mental health disease. There are several different options available for many adults with major depressive disorder. These include pharmacological treatments (prescription medications), psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

What Types of Medications Are Available for Treatment?

Common prescription medications used to treat depressive symptoms include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). 

Which Treatment Is the Right Option?

The type of treatment you choose depends on factors such as the severity of your symptoms, additional mental health symptoms (such as anxiety), your overall health, and your personal preferences. Some people prefer to start with talk therapy or other types of therapy. Your doctor or therapist can explain the different therapeutic options and match you with a type of treatment that will fit your individual needs. 

Can You Combine Treatments?

A combination of treatment options may provide additional benefits or help you to manage severe depressive symptoms. This combination could include prescription medications and therapy, different types of therapy, or TMS and therapy.

Contact a local depression treatment service to learn more.