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Long Term Treatment for Depression

The most widely used treatment for depression is medication. Medication is not recommended for long-term treatment, so one must find other options. Dysthymia is the term for long -erm depression. It is defined as depression lasting longer than two years.

  1. Natural Treatments

    • Natural cures include exercise, herbal remedies, aromatherapy and changes in diet. Limit sugar, add more omega-3, increase lean meats like turkey, add low-fat dairy and try substituting meat with soy foods.

    Self-Help

    • Self-help includes getting support from friends, reading depression-related books, learning to improve self-esteem and taking part in depression-related online forums.

    Positive Reinforcements

    • Those with depression need to be reminded daily of their self worth. Seek out positive reinforcement by having a daily affirmation delivered to your email. Getting a dose of something positive, especially first thing in the morning, is a great way to get started on the right foot.

    Talk Therapy

    • Cognitive behavior therapy or counseling is the most common form of treatment for the long term. Therapists, counselors and psychologists are all trained in levels of talk therapy.

    Benefits

    • Obtaining long-term treatments for depression is vital for the road to recovery. Medication can be used only for the short term. Long-term treatments can result in a higher success rate and a lower relapse rate.

    Symptoms

    • Dysthymia is not as disabling as major depression, but those with the illness still suffer from minor symptoms such as sleeplessness, hopelessness, low self-esteem and general negativity. Other symptoms can include difficulty concentrating or remembering, digestive problems and chronic pain.

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