Depression Treatment

Depression continues to be one of the most common mental illnesses in the United States. In 2017, an estimated 17.3 million adults in the U.S. suffered from at least one depressive episode. Globally, it is one of the leading causes of disability. As of January 2020, a total of 264 million people were affected worldwide. Various combinations of genetics, biological, environmental, and psychological factors play a role in its development. Unfortunately, at its worse, it can lead to a dramatic decrease in everyday functioning and eventually even suicide. However, despite its prevalence and severity, it can be treated and even cured. There are proven effective treatments and countless mental health professionals readily available.

In western medicine, depression is typically treated with psychotherapy, medication, or both. Additionally, brain stimulation therapy has been making a name for itself as well. A holistic approach will also show vast improvements – meaning physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellness may need to be addressed. Finding the correct treatments and the right approach has never been more possible and attainable. With medications and psychotherapy being the most used therapies in the U.S., let’s jump into some data and research regarding the two.

Medication

Antidepressants can improve the way the brain uses chemicals that control mood and stress. Often times there may be a trial-and-error period when searching for the right match. The end goal is to find the medication that improves symptoms with the least amount of side effects. Medication typically takes at least 2 to 4 weeks to take effect. Patience may be required as the initial goal is to reduce the symptoms before addressing the root. Once the depression has lifted, the treatment is continued for at least four to nine months. Many patients feel the desire to stop taking medication once they start feeling better; however, this may cause the depression to return. This final process is necessary to prevent relapse.

The most commonly used antidepressants include tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, and selective serotonin noradrenaline re-uptake inhibitors. Depression may be caused by an imbalance in neurotransmitters (such as serotonin) and these medications work to increase their availability in the brain. Studies with adults with moderate to severe depression show that when taking a placebo, about 20-40 out of 100 of them noticed symptom relief in a six to eight week course. Comparatively, about 40-60 out of the 100 adults who took the actual antidepressant saw improvements in symptoms. Basically at least 20 more adults saw improvements with medication. Furthermore, studies show that medications help lower the risk of relapsing. About half of the individuals who received the placebo had a relapse in one to two years and only 23 out of the 100 experienced one in the same amount of time. In conclusion, medications prove to be effective for many as a standalone option.

Psychotherapy

Also referred to as counseling or “talk therapy”, psychotherapy is a broad term used for treating depression through identifying and understanding painful emotions, thoughts, and habits. Some examples of psychotherapy include behavioral activation, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, and holistic therapy. Therapists may use one technique or a combination of two or more. In 1986, it was found that after one to seven therapy sessions, 60-65% of people experienced drastic relief in symptoms. After six months, it increased to 70-75%, and 85% after one year. This is a great reminder that suffering in silence does not have to be the norm.

It is suggested that abnormalities in the corticolimbic system may be the cause of depression. The corticolimbic systems make up the prefrontal cortex, the hippocampus, the amygdala, and the anterior cingulate cortex. It is believed that psychotherapy may assist in the modulation of dysfunctional networks in these areas.  Psychotherapy may strengthen the cortical emotion regulatory processes. This then leads to enhanced regulation over limbic regions, which reduces significant emotional reactions to negative stimuli. This creates a more peaceful and balanced environment in the brain.