What is Depression?

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Depression is a mental health condition that can affect a person's thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness, as well as a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed. Depression can also cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in appetite, and difficulty sleeping.

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What are the treatment options for Depression?

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Therapy can be an effective treatment for depression. There are several types of therapy that can be used to treat depression, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and interpersonal therapy. These therapies aim to help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to their depression. In CBT, for example, the therapist may work with the individual to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs and replace them with more positive and realistic ones.

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Therapy can also provide individuals with coping skills and strategies to help them manage their depression symptoms. This may include relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and problem-solving skills. In addition, therapy can provide individuals with a supportive and non-judgmental space to discuss their feelings and experiences, which can help them feel less alone and more understood.

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In some cases, medication may also be used in conjunction with therapy to treat depression. This is a decision that should be made in consultation with your doctor.

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There are several types of medications that can be used to treat depression in the UK, including:

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• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) - These medications increase the level of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain, which can improve mood. Examples of SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and citalopram (Celexa).

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• Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) - These medications increase the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help improve mood. Examples of SNRIs include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).

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• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) - These medications have been used to treat depression for many years, but they can have more side effects than newer antidepressants. Examples of TCAs include amitriptyline (Elavil) and imipramine (Tofranil).

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• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) - These medications are typically used when other antidepressants have not been effective, but they can have serious side effects and require strict dietary restrictions. Examples of MAOIs include phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate).

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It's important to note that antidepressants can take several weeks to start working, and they may not be effective for everyone. Additionally, they can have side effects and may interact with other medications, so it's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage for you.

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If you would like to talk to someone about depressions symptoms and start working towards feeling better, get in touch.

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Please Note: Depression is considered a medical diagnosis. If you have been diagnosed or suspect you may have any mental health medical conditions, you should consult your GP for advice, diagnosis and treatment and always inform your health professional before starting any alternative or additional therapies or treatments. 

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