It is most often recommended when drug treatments can't be tolerated or there is an unacceptable delay in when drugs would become effective. ECT, which works quickly in most people, is given as a series of treatments over a few weeks. Like other antidepressant therapies, followup treatment with medication or occasional ECT is often needed to help prevent a return of depression. There are a few practical steps you can take. One way to prepare for major changes in life, such as retirement or the death of family or friends, is to keep and maintain friendships over the years.
Friends can help ease the loneliness of losing a spouse.
You can also develop interests or hobbies, keep the mind and body active, and stay in touch with family to help limit the effects of depression. Being physically fit and eating a balanced diet are ways to help avoid illnesses that can bring on disability or depression. Follow the doctor's directions on using medicines to lower the risk of depression as a drug side effect. The first step to getting help is to accept that help is needed. The subject of mental illness still makes some people uncomfortable.