DEPRESSION

Chemical imbalances have long been linked to depressive disorders. Antidepressants are often prescribed to balance the brain chemistry. Serotonin and melatonin levels are usually the ones that need to be adjusted initially.  For many people, antidepressants really help however at times you need to try several different varieties as well as dosages before finding the one that works just right for you, with the least side effects.

According to research Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the prime choice when treating depression.  This type of therapy focuses upon the brain’s reactivity to stress through cognition, perception, and beliefs. Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy allows a person to evaluate and examine their belief system in terms of providing strategies and self-talk to move through their depression towards well-being. 

There are currently 23 antidepressants available in the US, 14 of which are older medications and not used as widely. The other nine are the newer and more frequently used variety, five of which are SSRIs.  The other four at are Remeron SolTab, Serzone, Wellbutrin/Wellbutrin SR and XR,  Effexor/Effexor XR. There are others that are used in combination with the aforementioned and have a very good effect as well.