The pros and cons of treatment

Has the treatment of depression changed?

Yes, there have been some major advances in the treatment of depression. The options available today are very good.

Read on to find out why:

In the past depression was something that was only treated by specialists. These days most people are treated by their family doctor.
In the past antidepressants had unpleasant side effects. These days the side effects are fewer and milder.
In the past a small overdose of antidepressant could be dangerous, however, many of the newer drugs are not necessarily life threatening when taken in overdose.
In the past blood samples often had to be taken to check that the dose was right. These days this is rarely necessary.
In the past you had to be very careful about taking other medicines and your antidepressant. These days there are antidepressants with fewer interactions with other drugs.

Are you suffering from depression?

Has your doctor made a diagnosis of depression ? Have you started on medication? Have you stopped taking your medication? Are you taking less than you should? If you answered "yes" to the last two questions, unfortunately you're not the only one...

Studies have shown that fewer than one in two patients complete a four-week course of treatment
More than half are still depressed when they stop treatment

Discontinuing your treatment too early may influence the effectiveness of the treatment, Read more on 'Treatment with antidepressants'. Once you've had one bout of depression, there is a risk of you having more

Unfortunately depression has a tendency to return and you may suffer from recurrent depressive episodes lasting between three and 12 months. Around 12% of people struck by depression once will suffer from recurrent bouts.

When you know on the one hand that:

Depression is no fun
Depression is burdensome and sometimes destructive

And on the other that:

Treatment helps
You can choose between psychotherapy and medication
Modern medicines have few side-effects
Modern medicines are not addictive

Why do so many people abandon their treatment before they're better?

Take a look at the pros and cons of treatment:

Cons:

You may feel that you're no longer in control of your life
You have to actively go out and ask for help
You have to take your medication
You may suffer from side effects
You may find it embarrassing to seek treatment
You have to admit to yourself that you're suffering from depression

Pros:

You will see a professional who knows what depression is
You will see a professional who knows what can be done
You get professional help and support for social and other problems
You will be less of a burden on your nearest and dearest
You will get well again
You won't become addicted to antidepressants
Most side effects pass in a few days or weeks
There are many different types of antidepressants
Medications can prevent fresh episodes of depression
There are different types of psychotherapy
Psychotherapy can provide insight into a number of life issues
Psychotherapy can prevent further episodes of depression

So is there really any reason not to seek treatment?

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