If you or your loved one has been depressed for two weeks, has suicidal thoughts, has difficulty sleeping and bad appetite - these are sure signs of a depressive disorder. What should be done in such cases?
Diagnosis and treatment of depression
First of all, it is necessary to make an appointment with a psychiatrist. They will listen to your complaints, conduct diagnostics, analyze your condition. After these procedures they will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis and recommendations for further action.
There are three options for treating depression: psychotherapy, medication, or psychotherapy combined with medication. For moderate to severe depression, drug therapy is usually prescribed. The psychiatrist selects the necessary drugs for the client, competently calculates the dosage and frequency of use.
In this case, treatment begins with medication to relieve the main symptoms and not to force the client to dig deeper into themselves. Psychotherapy, of course, is also needed, but at this stage it is more likely to be supportive rather than deep.
If a person has a mild degree of depression, the specialist starts treatment with psychotherapy. To combat depression, many specialists use cognitive psychotherapy. This therapy is aimed at changing a person's ideas about themselves and the surrounding world. There are cases when psychotherapy does not give the desired effect, for example, the client is not ready to work. Then medication is prescribed.
Important!
Remember, the sooner you seek help, the more chances for successful recovery you have. Do not delay going to a specialist. On our website you can find the right specialist for you.
How long should I take antidepressants?
Most often, the doctor prescribes to take antidepressants for 6 months. Since the effect of these drugs is manifested after 3 or 4 weeks, it happens that initially the client is prescribed a small dose of antidepressants, and then the doctor gradually increases it.
Antidepressants can be divided into three groups:
Stimulant
They are prescribed to those who have reduced efficiency, lack of energy, apathy prevails.
Sedative
Help people who have increased anxiety, a large number of phobias, disturbed sleep.
Balanced
These drugs are prescribed for anxious or lethargic depression.
Prevention of depression
To prevent the development of depression, it is necessary to perform the following actions:
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Healthy sleep, at least 8 hours a day.
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Follow a proper diet, be sure to include fruits and vegetables in your diet.
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Plan your day - this will help avoid surprises and stressful situations.
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Take care of your health.
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Take time to spend with your family and friends.
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Express your emotions.
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Do sports.
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Make time for yourself.
