They are not habit forming, but people who take them should be carefully monitored to make sure that they are getting the correct dose. Often these drugs take several weeks to be effective. Psychotherapy can help reorient a person whose life and relationships have been altered by clinical depression . ECT is often accompanied by memory loss but appears to have no other side effects. Stages and progress The progress of clinical depression differs greatly.
Some people have only one episode during a lifetime, while others have repeated episodes.
Possible actions when depression strikes Avoid alcohol, which is a potent depressant. Stop taking drugs other than those prescribed by a physician - and tell your physician that you are depressed. Regular exercise helps some people. Avoid making major decisions while you are depressed. In general, go easy on yourself.