Depression Treatments

Submitted by Thiruvelan on Thu, 06/24/2010 - 08:53

In general, the severe depressive illnesses, particularly those that are recurrent, will require antidepressant medications along with psychotherapy for the best result.

Who can help in depression treatment

Treatment for depression for diabetics should be managed by mental health professionals, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist or clinical social worker who is in close communication with the physician providing diabetes treatment. This is very much important when antidepressant medication is needed or prescribed, so that potential harmful drug interactions can be avoided.

Treatment options for depression

Psychotherapy (talk therapy),
Antidepressant medication,
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT),
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

Medical study shows that depression leads to drop in physical and mental functioning, so a person is less likely to follow a required meal or medication plan. Treating depression with psychotherapy (“talk” therapy), antidepressant medications or a combination can improve a patient’s mood, well-being and their ability to manage diabetes.

Psychotherapy for depression

Psychotherapy is often the first treatment option recommended for depression. Simple called as "talk therapy", the word psychotherapy actually involves a variety of treatment techniques.

During psychotherapy, a person with depression talks to a licensed and trained mental healthcare professional who helps him or her identify and work through the factors that may be causing their depression. And the healthcare profession work to remould you to overcome depression by his convincing talk.

Medication drugs for depression – antidepressants

Prescription antidepressant medications are generally well tolerated and safe for people with diabetes. However recovery from depression takes time; medications can take several weeks to work and may need to be combined with psychotherapy.

Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs); TCAs primarily affect the levels of two chemical messengers in the brain, norepinephrine and serotonin. They can have more side effects than other drugs, so they typically aren't the first drugs used.
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs); MAOIs are most effective for people with depression who not respond to other treatments. Substances in certain foods like cheese, beverages like wine, and medications can interact with an MAOI. So when taking this medication must adhere to strict dietary restrictions. So these too typically aren’t the first drug choice.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs); SSRIs are a newer form of antidepressant, works by altering the amount of a chemical in the brain called serotonin.
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs); SNRIs are also newer form of antidepressant, works by increasing the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

Also known as electroshock therapy, is mostly preferred to treat severe depression. During ECT, a skilled doctor applies a brief electric current through the scalp to the brain. This current induces a seizure. ECT is very effective at treating depression.

ECT is generally preferred, when severe depression and not responsive to other forms of therapies. Or used when patients pose a severe threat to themselves or others and it is dangerous to wait until medications take effect.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

TMS creates a magnetic field to induce a very small electric current in a specific part of the brain without seizure or loss of consciousness.

TMS is used to treat milder depression and works best for patients who have failed to benefit other antidepressant treatments. Also, unlike ECT, TMS does not require sedation and is administered on an outpatient basis. Patients undergoing TMS must be treated four or five times a week for four weeks.

There is some scientific evidence that St. John's wort is helpful in treating mild to moderate depression. Use of herbal supplements of any kind should be discussed with a physician before they are tried. Recent study shows St. John’s wort may interactions with some other medications taken for diabetes.

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