There are many treatments for depression and anxiety and the treatment regimen must be customized to the individual circumstances. However, the broad categories of treatment include:

1. Medication – Research has indicated that depression is often accompanied by changes in the chemical balance in the brain. These chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine affect the neurological messages transmitted by the brain and the receptors of these messages and can directly influence mood. Many modern medications for depression such as Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s for short) attempt to correct this chemical imbalance and can provide fast relief from nervousness, anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness etc.

2. Psychological and cognitive therapies – These strategies aim to influence the patient’s behavior and thought processes and their response to external stimuli

3. Strategies for coping – Stress is a part of normal daily life. Teaching patients skills to cope and react to these stresses in a positive manner can help to deal with anxiety and depression.

4. Alternative treatments and therapies – Herbal remedies such as St John’s Wort are commonly recommended for mild depression.

While depression and anxiety may appear to a third party to be a totally unrealistic and irrational response, it is very real to the patient. Support of family and/or a wider social network coupled with appropriate and timely medical help is vital to stop its progression.

The good news is that most depression and anxiety can be treated effectively if the patient seeks help.
Depressie eBoek