Most Patients Respond Successfully

Correct Diagnosis and Correct Treatment Are Available

The principal medications used in treating Depressive Illness are cyclic antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, and newer "third generation" medications. Only patients with a Depressive Illness will experience a positive response, which may take up to six weeks. Lithium, a natural salt, is effective in the treatment of mania and, sometimes, of depression. On occasion, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)is useful, particularly for individuals whose depression is incapacitating, severe, life-threatening, or for those who cannot take or do not respond to antidepressant medications.

For proper diagnosis of Depressive Illness and administration of antidepressant medication, physicians expert in diagnosis and biochemical therapy must be consulted. All physical treatments incur the risks of side effects and make informed medical monitoring a mandatory part of all treatment.

Over 80 percent of those treated with these medications respond favorably, and most are able to resume normal activity. Many find psychotherapy or counseling useful as well.