Major depression Health Article

Support Groups

For more information and resources, see depression support group.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome is usually good with treatment. Although most depressive episodes can be effectively treated with either medication, psychotherapy, or both, depression is a recurring problem for many people. For people who have experienced repeated episodes of depression, maintenance treatment may be needed to prevent future recurrences.

Complications

• Suicide (up to 15% of people with major depressive disorder die by suicide)
• Increased risk of alcohol- and drug-related problems
• Increased risk of tobacco dependence
• Increased risk of problems with physical health and premature death due to medical illness

Calling your health care provider

Call 911, a suicide hotline, or get safely to a nearby emergency room if you have thoughts of suicide, a suicidal plan, or thoughts of harming yourself or others.

Call your doctor right away if:

• You hear voices that are not there.
• You have frequent crying spells with little or no provocation.
• You have had feelings of depression that disrupt work, school, or family life for longer than 2 weeks.
• You think that one of your current medications may be making you feel depressed. DO NOT change or stop any medications without consulting your doctor.
• You believe that you should cut back on drinking, a family member or friend has asked you to cut back, you feel guilty about the amount of alcohol you drink, or you drink alcohol first thing in the morning.

Prevention

Some episodes of depression can be avoided by:

• Learning how to relax and manage stress
• Avoiding alcohol, drugs, and caffeine
• Exercising regularly
• Maintaining good sleep habits

Counseling may help you through times of grief, stress, or low mood. Family therapy may be particularly important for teens who feel blue.

For elderly or others who feel socially isolated or lonely, try volunteering or getting involved in group activities.

Medications and psychiatric counseling may prevent recurrences. Some episodes of depression are not preventable.