Having depression can be a debilitating illness. The symptoms can make it hard for you to get out of bed in the morning and go about your normal day-to-day activities. In some cases, depression can also cause physical ailments such as headaches and back pain. Untreated depression can also cause problems in your relationships. If you or a loved one suffers from depression, it is important to seek professional help.
The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has written guidelines on various types of treatments for depression. They recommend a number of steps in the treatment process, including a medical assessment, a discussion of possible causes, and a recommendation on how to manage your condition. In addition, you may need to speak with your physician, join a support group, or do some research on your own.
Although the best way to treat depression depends on the cause, a healthy diet and regular exercise can help improve your mood. It is also a good idea to keep a diary of your medications and any changes you make. You should also be able to locate local groups and support resources online.
There are also several self-help books that can assist you in identifying and managing the symptoms of depression. You can also find a therapist or psychiatrist if you need extra help. A mental health professional will be able to conduct a comprehensive evaluation and test your symptoms to determine whether or not you have depression.
It is important to recognize the signs of depression as early as possible. It is not uncommon for people to feel low for a long period of time without realizing that they are suffering from it. However, if you are experiencing symptoms, you should be evaluated and treated as soon as possible.
A health professional will usually ask you a series of questions about your symptoms. They will also perform a physical exam to rule out other medical conditions that might be causing the onset of your depression. They will also look at your family history and cultural factors.
A doctor will also likely describe the current episode of depression in terms of its severity. They might say it is mild, moderate, or severe. If your symptoms haven’t been adequately addressed, your GP or psychiatrist can recommend a more aggressive treatment. This could involve medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two. The most effective treatment is the one that will treat your depression and prevent it from coming back.
You should be able to get the right type of help and the right medications to treat your depression. You can also participate in group therapy that will help you learn how to cope with similar situations.
You may be able to get free or low-cost exercise programs through a program called ‘exercise on prescription.’ Some GP surgeries will also put you in touch with local exercise schemes.
If your symptoms are more serious, you might consider electroconvulsive therapy. This involves a procedure in which a therapist induces a seizure while the patient is asleep. This is used in treating major depression. In addition, you can also try brain stimulation therapies.