Successful accomplishment increases confidence and helps to break the vicious circle. Many depressions may be helped by psychological treatments. In severe or prolonged depressions, drug treatment may be required. Antidepressant drugs may not work immediately. Sleep disturbance and anxiety symptoms are the first to improve but other symptoms may take up to 2 weeks or longer to improve.
Treatment often needs to be continued for weeks or even months.
They may be taken spread out during the day or as one dose at night. The therapist tries to be as objective as possible. He or she will not allow his or her feelings to enter into the consultation. The problems which are brought to the surface can be painful and difficult for the depressed person to cope with, but the therapist will provide a safe and supportive environment. Side-effects are common, mainly drowsiness, weight gain, blurred vision, dry mouth and constipation.