HealthTree Blog

People who suffer from depression often have trouble finding a treatment that works for them. Many stop their treatment because they think it is not working or have side effects that they cannot tolerate. A recent poll showed that many people who suffer from depression have tried three or more plans and about 35 percent have tried five or more.

Of the more than 1,200 people polled 70 percent had been diagnosed with clinical depression and the other 30 percent considered themselves depressed. Of those polled 85 percent had tried prescription drugs and psychotherapy treatment and had given at least three different options a try. At least 60 percent of them felt that anti-depressant medications are over-prescribed by physicians. This poll indicates that people suffering from depression are most likely not happy with their traditional treatment and may be helped by looking at an alternative therapy.

With all the different responses from the poll researchers are very interested in testing a new method of patient education that would help those who are not responding to their treatment. New technology is being used to help give people the knowledge that can help them take control of their depression.

Some people who suffer from depression are not willing to try even one type of treatment and a study has shown that 25 percent of pregnant women are depressed and many are not willing to take medication while pregnant. The study reveals that alternative treatment can help relieve depression symptoms.

A person who is depressed may be reluctant to seek advice from their physician because they are afraid to admit that they have a problem or they may feel that they will become dependent upon medication. Depression is a physical problem and not just a mental one. There is help and your physician can guide you to choose what is right for you.