I Think I Have Depression. What Should I do?
by Kevin Caruso
Untreated depression is the number one cause for suicide. So if you are depressed, you must get treatment.
First you need to make appointments with a doctor and a therapist so you can be assessed. Do not assume that you know everything that is going on with your body. You could have a medical condition that is causing your depression. So please do not try to do a self-diagnosis. Depression is a serious disorder that needs to be assessed by professionals; so, again, please make appointments with a doctor and a therapist.
If you are diagnosed with depression, you have a chemical imbalance in your brain. And the treatment for your depression will work to rectify that imbalance.
You may be prescribed an antidepressant. These medications work very well for most people, moderately well for others, and not at all for others.
But please note that antidepressants require several weeks to become effective. So consult with whoever prescribed the medicine to you so you will know how long, on average, it will take for you to feel better.
Also, you want to be aware of all of the possible side effects, and if you experience any of them you will want to contact your doctor or psychiatrist immediately.
If the first antidepressant that you take does not work for you, you may be prescribed a different one. Please be patient. Sometimes it takes a while to determine which is the best medicine or medicines for any individual.
Click below for additonal information on SSRIs.
Treating Depression with SSRIs
You also want to consider taking dietary supplements. Many people who do not have success with medicine get better using these supplements.
And many people take medicine and supplements. But please consult with your doctor and psychiatrist before you take anything so you will know if there is a potential problem.
Certain supplements cannot be taken with medications, so please get clearance before you proceed.
Please click below for additional information on dietary supplements.
Depression and Dietary Supplements
And make sure that you exercise, eat a healthy diet, and take vitamins.
Click below for additional information.
Depression and Exercise
Depression and Your Diet
Depression and Vitamins
You also want to stay in therapy until your depression goes away. If you do not like your
therapist, then find another one.
It is important to talk about your depression and your problems with your therapist.
A good therapist is a good listener, is someone who can give you
helpful feedback, and can offer ways to help you cope with your problems.
You will want to read some books on depression also. Learn as much as you can about depression, and learn as much as possible about what others have done to control their depression.
You want to do everything that you possibly can do to get better.
And believe that you will get better. Some people get better relatively quickly, others need some more time, but almost every one who suffers from depression does gets better.
So, always believe that you will get better - because you will.
If you or someone you know is suicidal, please go to the Home Page of this website for immediate help.
Thank you.
I love you.
Take care,
Kevin Caruso
