All side effects should be discussed with your doctor. Often, the drug or the dosage can be altered to provide the best effect with the fewest problems. Very few physicians believe that medication alone cures depression. Psychiatrists, who are MDs, can prescribe medication as well as provide counseling. Talk therapy can be obtained from certified social workers, psychologists, psychiatric nurses, licensed professional counselors, or other qualified non-physicians, who will seek evaluations by a psychiatrist regarding the selection and monitoring of medication if it is indicated.
Talk therapy takes several forms.
It may be time-limited and address a current crisis. It may be supportive and focus on finding ways to cope. The form depends on the individual s needs, and these may change over time or with the stage of illness. Therapy can be supplemented by participating in a support group. What s important is that you see somebody who believes in what he or she is doing, someone with whom you can have a good relationship.