Treatment of Depression

Treatment of Depression

Dr. Nand Kumar, a psychiatrist at AIIMS, Delhi renders hope for the people diagnosed with Depression, “Fortunately, treatment options for depression are available and effective; we can easily treat depression.”

Discussing treatment options, he shared that depression is treatable with medication, lifestyle changes, and therapy being the primary treatment options. The duration, or course of medication is six to nine months, after which slowly and steadily medication is reduced and is terminated. 

In conjunction with psychiatrists and psychologists, social workers, homeopathy practitioners, ayurvedic, and the spiritual or faith healers as well are also involved in the treatment of depression.

Dr. Kumar busts a misconception regarding the medicines for depression being for sleep or intoxication. Medications aren’t for sleep because certain medicines are for morning hours to avoid feeling sleepy, and if given at night, will lead to a disturbed sleep.

Social support is equally essential in the treatment of the disorder. Dr. Kumar lists out certain tips for caregivers supporting a loved one with depression - 

to understand that depression is a real condition.

assuring and listening to the patient more than talking, and encouraging, not forcing for treatment. 

asking the patient to revisit the doctor, take or change the medication, only at a favourable time.

On the importance of early intervention or preventative care in case of depression, Dr. Nand Kumar, AIIMS, Delhi says, “The most important thing is to know, accept and understand the disorder; intervention is a later process or step.”