Treating Depression

The good news about depression is that it is treatable. There are a number of different kinds of treatments that have been effective and helpful for many people who suffer or have suffered from depression. The first step to getting help is to recognize depression...and this starts with you.

If you think you are depressed, there are many places to get the help you need. You can call your family physician, your health maintenance organization (HMO), your local health department, community mental health center, hospital, or clinic. They can help you or tell you where you can go for help. You also may contact a local university medical center (many have special programs for the treatment of depression). The University of Michigan Health Education Resource Center, (734) 647-5645, and the Women's Health Resource Center, (734) 936-8886, can provide you with information on many different national and local support groups.

The most common treatments include antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two. Which treatment option is right for you is a decision that should be made by you and your health care provider. Fortunately, there now are a number of new medications generally considered to be safe for use during pregnancy and while breast-feeding. Sometimes women who are pregnant have a difficult time making decisions about treating their depression because they are concerned about exposing their babies to medicine. Your doctor can help you with this important decision.

Treating Depression

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