Final answer:
The possible treatments for major depression include psychotherapy, antidepressant medications such as MAO inhibitors and SSRIs, electroconvulsive therapy, and deep-brain stimulation. Lifestyle modifications and close communication with a healthcare provider about treatment plans and medication management are also vital components of managing depression.
Step-by-step explanation:
The possible treatments for patients with major depression include various interventions such as , medication, and more advanced techniques like brain stimulation. Talking therapies like psychotherapy can help people understand and work through their depression, while medications, including antidepressant drugs like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO inhibitors) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), alter brain chemistry to depressive symptoms. Other treatments are also available, like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and deep-brain stimulation (DBS), for cases that are resistant to the standard therapies. It is important to have discussions with a doctor about all medications and vitamins being taken, the risks of self-medication, the process for safely stopping antidepressants, and any concerns or side effects that arise from treatment.
Patients should also be aware of lifestyle factors that can impact depression. These include limiting alcohol consumption and refraining from and scheduled drugs. It's notable that the FDA has issued a black-box warning concerning the use of antidepressants in individuals under 25 years of age, due to an increased risk of thoughts and behaviors.