TIM eMagazine Vol.3 Issue 12
to confirm such an illness. If someone feels that he or she is experiencing the
aforementioned symptoms, or if relatives see signs of the illness in a loved one,
professional help should be sought.
What are the available treatment options?
The psychological treatment of depression or psychotherapy assists the
depressed individual in several ways, and is often three-, four, or even five-tiered
in structure. First, supportive counseling helps ease the pain of depression, and
addresses the feelings of hopelessness that accompany depression. Second,
cognitive therapy changes the pessimistic ideas, unrealistic expectations, and
overly critical self-evaluations that create depression and sustain it. Third, problem-
solving therapy changes the areas of the person's life that are creating significant
stress, contributing to the depression. Sometimes, behavioral or interpersonal
therapy is also introduced. The former assists the patient in developing better coping
skills, while the latter helps solve relationship problems.
For severe depression, medication is usually given. Antidepressant medication does
not cure depression, but helps the patient by controlling certain symptoms.
What are the possible complications?
About two-thirds of individuals who have a major depressive episode will recover
completely. The other one-third recovers only partially, or not at all. People who do not
recover completely will probably experience one or more additional episodes.
Managing or treating a medical condition is more difficult if a person is also clinically
depressed. The prognosis for the illness may also be less positive.
Other mental health conditions may often coexist with major depressive disorder. Some
of these are substance abuse, anxiety and panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder,
eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder.
Major depressive disorder should be taken very seriously, because up to 15 percent of
those with this condition commit suicide.
How can The Medical City help you?
The Medical City has a complete roster of excellent psychiatrists who are experienced in
dealing with mood problems. Appointments may be set with any of them to inquire about
the nature of this condition, either for oneself, or for a loved one.
Out-patient services through the Center for Behavioral Health under the Department
of Psychiatry are offered to those who need psychiatric treatment but are under financial
constraints. In-patient care is recommended for patients who have difficulty controlling their
symptoms or have self-harming or suicidal behavior.
Note: This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical
advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you or someone you know have any of the symptoms
mentioned above, it is advisable to seek professional help.
themedicalcity.com
For inquiries, you may contact:
CENTER FOR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Lower Ground Floor, Podium building, The Medical City
Tel. No. (+632) 988-1000 / (+632) 988-7000 ext. 6135
DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY
Lower Ground Floor, Podium building, The Medical City
Tel. No. (+632) 988-1000 / (+632) 988-7000 ext. 6608
[email protected]
REFERENCES:
The Medical City Center for Behavioral Health
Kaplan and Sadock’s Synopsis of Psychiatry 11th edition
http://www.oshc.dole.gov.ph
http://who.int/mental_health/management/depression/en/
Disclaimer: This information is not intended
to be used as a substitute for professional
medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If
you or someone you know have any of the
symptoms mentioned above, it is advisable
to seek professional help.
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