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Successful treatment for depression ?

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December 23rd, 2009
I strongly suspect I am suffering from depression and have been for a long time. I have not wanted to admit it. I'm feeling ashamed and embarassed, but I can't remember the last time I was feeling genuinely happy. My father died almost three years ago and I have never dealt with this, being my mother's only emotional support. My children are having problems. I'm stressed out at work. I feel sad and worried, constantly. I have not had major sleep problems, but I just don't feel interested or passionate about anything much anymore. I, frankly, have been thinking more about how not being alive would be a nice relief. I'm not thinking of taking my own life, but just wishing I was dead and over with all the things troubling me. Hope that makes sense. Does treatment for depression really work? I am fearful of that. Thanks for any advice you can offer.


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replied December 29th, 2009
Depression Answer A8748
Hi, welcome to the ehealth forum and I am glad to help you.

Your concern is regarding depression and whether any treatment works for the same or not. Various neuroendocrine abnormalities have been postulated for signs and symptoms of depression and these reverse with antidepressant treatment thus proving the efficacy of treatment. Altered noradrenergic activity, involvement of serotonin system and decreased expression of cAMP response element binding(CREB) protein have been suggested to play a role in depression.

The most effective intervention for depressed patients is medication but incorporating psychotherapy along with it improves the outcome. Between 60 and 70% of all depressed patients respond to drugs, if it is given in a sufficient dose for 6-8 weeks though the treatment may be continued for at least 6-9 months after remission is achieved to prevent relapse.

You may wish to consult your doctor to diagnose your problem and if depression is suggested by the doctor, feel assured that efficacious treatment is available for the same.
Hope that helps. Take care.
Note: This information is not for making any diagnosis and not to make any doctor-patient relationship and not to replace any existing one.



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