Depression Health Center

Understanding Depression -- Prevention

Treating Depression

As with any chronic illness, getting an early medical diagnosis and medical treatment may help reduce the intensity and duration of depression symptoms. It will also reduce the likelihood of a relapse.

To treat depression effectively, your doctor may use psychotherapy (counseling), medications such as antidepressants, or a combination of these therapies. It may take weeks for an antidepressant to fully work to ease depression symptoms, so it's important to stay on the medication.

When to Call Your Doctor About Depression

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, seek your health care provider's advice for treatment or referral to a mental health professional.