Treatment process for persistent sadness, loss of interest, and low energy, conducted with personalized therapy and/or medication plans, requiring regular follow-up.
Indication
- Depressed mood and loss of interest or pleasure lasting more than two weeks
- Significant changes in sleep and appetite
- Fatigue, weakness, and low energy
- Intense feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty with attention and decision-making
- Recurrent depressive episodes (recurrent depression)
- Postpartum depression, depression related to chronic illness, or post-trauma depression
Preparation
- When the symptoms started and how they fluctuate during the day are briefly noted
- All medications, supplements, and herbal products being used are reported to the physician
- Tests for accompanying medical conditions (thyroid, B12, anemia) may be requested
- Family support and lifestyle factors (sleep, exercise) are reviewed
How it's performed
- The physician evaluates the severity and type of depression through a detailed interview
- Tests and, if needed, imaging may be ordered to rule out medical causes
- For mild depression, psychotherapy (especially CBT) is the primary recommendation
- For moderate to severe depression, antidepressant medication may be initiated alongside therapy
- When medication is started, the effect typically becomes evident within 2-4 weeks
- Side effects and response are evaluated at follow-ups every 2-4 weeks
Post-procedure
- Continuing the medication for 6-12 months after initial response reduces relapse
- For recurrent depression, longer-term follow-up is planned
- Exercise, regular sleep, and social support strengthen the treatment effect
- Medication should not be discontinued without physician advice; abrupt discontinuation may cause withdrawal symptoms
- If suicidal thoughts arise, contact the emergency department or local emergency services immediately
Risks
- Transient side effects such as nausea, headache, and sleep disturbance may occur when starting an antidepressant
- Some individuals may experience changes in sexual desire and function
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding, medication choice is evaluated together with the physician based on a benefit-risk balance
- Treatment response varies between individuals; if the first medication does not work, alternative options are tried
- Discontinuing treatment prematurely increases the risk of relapse
FAQ
Are antidepressant medications addictive?
Commonly used modern antidepressants do not cause physical dependence. However, because abrupt discontinuation may lead to withdrawal symptoms, the discontinuation process is recommended to be gradual and supervised by a physician.
How quickly does the medication take effect?
Noticeable improvement usually begins within 2-4 weeks, and full effect may require 6-8 weeks. Patience and consistent follow-up appointments are important during this period.
Can it be treated with therapy alone?
In mild depression, psychotherapy alone (especially CBT) may be sufficient. In moderate to severe cases, combining therapy with medication is often more beneficial.
Are exercise and sleep really effective?
Regular aerobic exercise, sleep hygiene, and social interaction are supportive in depression treatment; however, in moderate to severe cases they do not replace medical treatment.
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