Depression and Treatment

Many people who suffer from depression wonder, "Why am I depressed?" and "What is wrong with me?" With the increase of psychotropic drugs, many people wonder if their problem is biologically based or whether it is the result of the events of their lives. Even when asking professionals about the origin of their depression, people are likely to get many conflicting responses. Some professionals will claim that it is strictly biological and should be treated with medication. While other professionals say that medication is a last resort and may cover up or distort the origin of the problem.

The fact of the matter is, that we are still learning, both about the human body and the human psyche and collectively we only have guesses - some more accurate than others—as to the nature of depression.

However, there are some things that are important to know…

1. There is a biological component to depression.

2. Medication is helpful in treating this biological component but essential only in severe cases.

3. Medication is not a complete solution. It has been proven that a medication works best in conjunction with therapy.

4. Therapeutic approaches are varied and all of them will have some effect on the depression.

5. The best therapist is one with which the client feels comfortable working. (See picking a therapist)

6. The best therapeutic modality is one that is aligned with the client's world view and value system. (See picking a therapeutic modality)

In the end, the treatment needs to be something that those suffering from depression can live with. It might not be possible to figure this out right at the beginning. It may take time and working with different treatment options before a solution is found. It is most important for a person with depression to know that he or she does not need to suffer from depression for the rest of his or her life. A situational depression will subside in time. Other forms of depression can be effectively treated and managed. There is hope and the possibility of living a depression free life.

Larger Visions offers Holistic Success Coaching and Integrative Psychotherapy. If you are interested in learning more about me or my work, please visit my website www.Largervisions.com The websites includes a comprehensive account of my background, and introduction to my work, articles, and archived newsletters. It offers an opportunity to sign up for a free introductory session and more information.