The person with a depressive disorder is often unable to fulfill the responsibilities of spouse or parent, and may be unable to carry out usual job responsibilities. Available medications and psychological treatments, alone or in combination, can help 80 percent of those with depression. With adequate treatment, future episodes may be prevented or reduced in severity. Yet, current evidence indicates that nearly two out of three depressed people do not seek treatment and suffer needlessly. In such cases, there can be added health benefits from treating the depression.
Clinical depression is a common illness that usually goes unrecognized.
When identified, it can be treated. There are effective medications and psychological treatments, which often are used in combination. In serious depression, medication is usually required. The majority of clinical depressions, including the most severe, improve with treatment, usually within weeks. Continued treatment will prevent recurrence.