Introduction

Contributing Factors

Identifying Symptoms of Depression

Treatment

“Real” Intersection of Systems

Action Ideas That Work

Resource Links

Resource Pages

References

Treatment

The first step in getting treatment for depression is to symptoms with a physician or another qualified health professional. This person may recommend a physical examination to determine if there is any underlying physical cause for the symptoms. During the exam, the physician will most likely order a variety of blood tests, and possibly thyroid, liver and kidney function tests.

If a diagnosis of depression is confirmed, drug therapy is often used to alleviate the symptoms of the disease. While medication is usually effective when taken as prescribed, compliance is a known problem among older patients. The National Association of Mental Illness estimates that 70 percent of the elderly with depression fail to take up to half of their medications xi.

Drug therapy is often combined with psychotherapy, which can help individuals learn better ways to cope and to handle feelings and problems. Psychotherapy may be especially important for older individuals who have significant life crises, lack social support, or lack coping skills.

In addition to professional help, individuals with depression can benefit by following a well-rounded diet and getting regular exercise. These activities can help to lift spirits, produce optimism, and decrease the feelings of being overwhelmed and helpless. In particular, exercise is believed to release “feel good” hormones in the brain that can help individuals feel more emotionally in control xii.

Fortunately, the prognosis for individuals with depression is positive. Once diagnosed, 80 percent of clinically depressed individuals can be effectively treated. Yet, like diabetes, depression is a chronic disease. Getting well is only the beginning of the challenge, staying well is the real goal. This might mean treatment for six months to a year for those experiencing their first episode of depression, to life-long treatment for those who have had three or more recurrences xiv.