In addition, your doctor probably will want to complete a medical exam, including some laboratory tests, to determine whether you are tired or depressed, or whether some other medical problem is causing your symptoms. You may need to seek psychotherapy or counseling from a qualified psychiatrist, social worker or therapist in addition to taking medication. It's important to choose someone who has experience in treating depression. A therapist should be able to describe the therapy and tell you how long he or she expects you to be under his or her care. Avoid therapists who cannot provide this type of information before you begin treatment.
Depression affects people differently.
It's important to realize, however, that depression is typically not a one-time illness and that there's very good chance it can recur later in life. That's why it's so important to follow your doctor's instructions. You may be able to stop taking antidepressant medication. If so, your doctor will want to monitor how you are feeling very closely. It's important that you learn to recognize the signs of depression and learn how to control depression throughout your life.