It is usually recommended that medications be taken for at least four to nine months after the depressive symptoms have improved . Those with chronic depression may need to stay on medication to prevent or lessen further episodes. As with any medication, side effects may occur. Make sure you are under the supervision of a doctor or other qualified mental health professional to ensure the best treatment with the fewest side effects. Talking with a trained mental health professional can help teach better ways of handling problems.
Therapy can be effective in treating clinical depression, especially depression that is less severe.
Interpersonal therapy focuses on dealing more effectively with other people, working to change relationships that can cause or worsen clinical depression. ECT has been improved to make it a safer and more effective form of treatment. It is intended for the more severe depressions and for patients who either cannot tolerate medication because of a medical condition or who are at immediate risk for suicide. It still remains a controversial treatment for some people who may experience troubling side effects such as memory loss. A thorough discussion between patient and doctor needs to take place when ECT is being considered.