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Prognosis for Chronic Depression

Today chronic depression is often successfully treated. In the past, the stigma of mental health issues like chronic depression have kept people from seeking help. Thankfully, treatment for depression has advanced with genetic research.

  1. Inherited Depression

    • Brain research has shown a thinner tissue layer on the right side of the brain for patients who have familial predisposition for depression.

    Dysthymic Disorder

    • Statistics from the National Institute on Mental Health show that "Symptoms of dysthymic disorder (chronic, mild depression) must persist for at least two years in adults (one year in children) to meet criteria for the diagnosis. Dysthymic disorder affects approximately 1.5 percent of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year.1 This figure translates to about 3.3 million American adults." This disorder describes a chronically depressed individual.

    SAM-e

    • SAM-e is an alternative, natural supplement, S-adenosylmethionine, is compared to tricyclic anti-depressants. It also requires vitamin B12 and folic acid for proper metabolism.

    Omega-3 Fatty Acids

    • Depression is linked to low blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming more fish oil is an easy way to boost these levels. Consult your doctor about increasing your omega-3 fatty acids intake while taking anti-depressants.

    Prognosis

    • Always ask a professional practitioner about signs and symptoms of depression. There are many new lifestyle and diet changes that could help.

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