Think about a sea-saw relationship between biologic and psychosocial factors in understanding vulnerability. Interventions are typically used in this sequence, the interventions are often interrelated, and each intervention has a somewhat different purpose. In suicide risk assessment always ask if the client is having or has recently had thoughts of killing themselves. This is the sign of active suicidal ideation and warrants follow-up questioning. When using biological treatments remember that clients must be on the proper dose for the proper duration.
Compliance is always a major issue in drug therapy.
Remember that antidepressant medications may take 4 to 6 weeks to show effect and clients will need support and encouragement during this period. Discouragement and side-effects are major factors in compliance problems. ETC electroconvulsive therapy is seen as the most effective of all the antidepressant treatments for severe depression. Feel less alone. Cope better with their disorder.