The professionals who can help include your family doctor, a geriatric specialist, a psychiatrist, a psychologist and other professionals with mental health training, such as social workers and nurses.
Many people also find assistance through self-help and support groups.
Antidepressant drugs are often tried first, because they can help improve mood, sleep, appetite and concentration. Drugs take time to work. The first sign a drug is working may take 2 to 4 weeks to appear, with full effects between 6 weeks to 3 months. Treatment should continue for at least 6 months to avoid relapse. Many suggest that responders who have recurrent depression stay on medications indefinitely.