What are the treatments for depression?

Depression is a common and serious mental disorder that negatively affects the way you feel, think, act, and perceive the world.

Although it can occur at any time and at any age, it may first appear in people during their late teens or mid-20s.

But what are the treatments for depression?

Depression is one of the most treatable mental health disorders. Approximately 80 percent to 90 percent of people with depression who seek treatment ultimately respond well to treatment.

Treatments include:

-Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy (talk therapy) involves talking with a mental health professional. Your therapist helps you identify and change the emotions, thoughts, and behaviors that are causing you harm. There are many types of psychotherapy – cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common. Sometimes, brief therapy is all you need. Other people continue therapy for several months or years.

Read too What is depression?

-Medicines: Prescription medications called antidepressants can help change the brain chemicals that cause depression. There are several different types of antidepressants, and it may take time to find the one that works best for you. Some antidepressants have side effects, which often get better over time. If they don't, talk to your healthcare provider. Another medication may work better for you.

-Complementary medicine: This includes treatments that you can receive alongside traditional Western medicine. People with mild depression or persistent symptoms can improve their well-being with therapies such as acupuncture, massage, hypnosis, and mind-body therapy.

Read too What are the symptoms of depression?

-Brain stimulation therapy: Brain stimulation therapy can help people who have severe depression or depression with psychosis. Types of brain stimulation therapy include electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS).

Depression therapies you can apply yourself at home

Get enough exercise;

Get quality sleep;

Eat a healthy diet;

Avoid alcohol;

Spend time with the people you love. /Telegraph/