How Is Clinical Depression Treated?

If you suffer from clinical depression, even the simplest of tasks can be difficult. It can be hard to get out of bed in the morning and go to work. It can even be impossible to enjoy the tasks that used to bring a smile to your face. Fortunately, there are treatment options available to help you overcome the symptoms and live a happy life.

Medications for clinical depression

Those who suffer from depression should make an appointment with a psychiatrist so that they can get on medication. Medication can help people feel a lot better in a matter of weeks. Patients are prescribed a medication and then follow up with a psychiatrist. If the current medication does not work, the doctor might change the dosage or the medication. Over time, the psychiatrist will find an effective option for the patient.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are often the first line of defense for those who are suffering from depression. Medications such as citalopram, paroxetine and sertraline increase the amount of serotonin in the brain. These medications come with few side effects and are effective in treating depression for most patients.

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

Patients also respond well to SNRIs such as duloxetine and venlafaxine. These medications increase the levels of serotonin in the brain. These medications can provide some pain relief for the patients as well.

Atypical antidepressants

Atypical antidepressants can increase the levels of serotonin, dopamine or norepinephrine. Bupropion, mirtazapine and trazodone are all atypical antidepressants.

Tricyclic antidepressants

Tricyclic antidepressants are used to increase the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine. These medications can cause some uncomfortable side effects, so psychiatrists typically only describe them when other options have not been effective.

Psychotherapy for depression

Most medical professionals agree that people who suffer from depression should also attend psychotherapy. The medication will help alleviate the symptoms, and then patients can learn how to deal with their emotions in a healthy way through therapy.  Florida Psychiatric Associates can provide a list of licensed psychotherapists as options and make a referral. 

During therapy, patients learn coping strategies and also identify their triggers. Patients are encouraged to set goals in therapy and then work toward them in each session.

Patients typically start by going to therapy at least once a week, although that might change over time. As patients gain control over their symptoms, therapy might be limited to once every two weeks or even once a month.

Therapists evaluate the patient to determine what type of therapy is the right option. Many will choose cognitive behavioral therapy for people with depression. This teaches people how to form new thought patterns to deal with various issues. It takes some time for people to achieve optimal results with this therapy, but those who stick with it typically enjoy a positive outcome.

Get help for clinical depression

You do not have to live your life with depression. There are treatment options that can help you break free from depression and experience happiness once again. If you suffer from depression, seek help from a psychiatrist and psychotherapist immediately.

Request an appointment here: Call Florida Psychiatric Associates at (407) 960-5633 for an appointment in our Altamonte Springs office.

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