|  | Conditions Treatments | Depression

Major Depressive Disorder Treatment Challenges

Major depressive disorder -- often simply referred to as depression -- is a mental illness thought to be caused by chemical imbalance, trauma, extreme or prolonged stress or physical illness. Among the most recognizable symptoms are prolonged or unexplained sadness, irritability, body aches, lack of energy, lack of motivation and decreased concentration. Options for treating depression are as diverse as the patients, but each avenue presents its own challenges.

  1. Medication Challenges

    • There are numerous types and brands of medications available for treating depression. Side effects can be extreme, however, and medication is not a cure. Treating depression with only antidepressants is akin to treating a compound fracture with only narcotics. It may dull the symptoms, but the affliction remains.

    Antidepressant Side Effects

    • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressant medications. The side effects of SSRI therapy can be significant for some and may include headaches, constipation, decreased sex drive, sweating and dizziness. Newer types of antidepressants have similar side effects.

    Risks and Withdrawal

    • While many do respond to some type of antidepressant, in some cases these medications may actually exacerbate depression symptoms. Withdrawal can also present a challenge, as increased depression, dizziness, fatigue, nightmares and electric shock sensations may occur if doses are not tapered gradually.

    Comorbid Conditions

    • Depression commonly appears with other mental disorders, particularly alcohol and substance abuse. The presence of other conditions may lead to confusion in diagnosis.

    Situational Causes

    • If depression is the result of environmental or situational causes, the challenge is to determine the cause and make changes in the environment or situation. Getting the depressed person to open up about personal or professional stressors in order to gain insight may be the most formidable challenge in treatment.

Depression - Related Articles