MEDICAL TREATMENT FOR DEPRESSION:
BENEFITS VS RISKS

As with any medical treatment, benefits as well as risks exist with drug therapy for depression. There are documented side effects associated with antidepressant medications, many of which subside during treatment. One must take these into account when deciding whether or not to utilize pharmaceuticals in the treatment of depression. For example, I would rather experience a few side effects then be unable to function due to depression. In the case of severe depression, there isn't much choice but medical treatment until the symptoms of the illness are under control.

If you are suffering with depression, first make an appointment with your medical doctor for a complete physical exam with blood work, as your symptoms may have another cause. If everything is alright, you must then deal with your depression, which is a medical illness in and of itself. If the depression is mild to moderate, talk therapy along with lifestyle changes may be all that is needed to obtain significant relief. More severe depression, such as when one is having suicidal thoughts or one is simply unable to function requires more aggressive treatment with medication and sometimes hospitalization.

If you determine pharmaceutical therapy may be for you, discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor. It would be a good idea to see a psychiatrist as they are trained specifically in drug treatment for mental illnesses. Side effects are divided into categories of common, infrequent and rare; and the severity of each symptom is listed as well. Severe side effects require immediate medical intervention, since they can be life threatening. Fortunately, most of these are rare. Together with your doctor you can determine whether the benefits of medical therapy outweigh any possible side effects you could experience.

If you'd like to find out more about side effects of a certain medication you can ask your doctor or pharmacist. Request the drug insert when you pick up your prescription for valuable information. Another excellent source of drug information is www.webmd.com, as the advice and data are written so the lay person can understand.

When you begin therapy be aware that relief may not be felt for six to eight weeks. This may help you avoid discouragement, as the first month or two of your treatment can be a very difficult time. It is beneficial to remain in close contact with your doctor or therapist. During this time you may also experience troubling side effects which often go away during treatment. You can recheck the list of side effects or call your doctor or pharmacist.

If you experience side effects you cannot tolerate during treatment, tell your doctor. Often all that is needed is a dosage adjustment or a different medication. Never, ever, suddenly stop taking any antidepressant medication without medical supervision as this can seriously exacerbate the depression or cause other risky health problems.

Drug therapy can be a very helpful form of treatment for depression, but not necessarily as a first choice unless the illness is moderate to severe. Whatever form of treatment you choose, weigh the benefits as well as the risks of treatment with your doctor before making your decision. Be aware of the possible side effects of your medication so you will know what to do should you experience any. In addition, remember most of them will go away as therapy continues.

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