Depression responds better to treatment than many other forms of mental illness. Different treatments may be used alone or together. This depends on the patient's condition, diagnosis and personal choice. Drug therapy includes antidepressant drugs and mood stabilizers . Antidepressant drugs seem to correct the chemical imbalances in the brain that produce some forms of depression.
Mood stabilizers can prevent the return of depression.
But even when they work well, both types of drugs act slowly and can produce side effects. It is not known why this treatment makes patients feel and act less depressed. Side effects can include disorientation immediately after treatment, headaches and sore, stiff muscles. Some complain of memory loss in the long term. If ECT is recommended, patients should ask questions.