Treatment: Medication
When it comes to treating persistent depressive disorder, your doctor will take various factors into consideration. These factors include the severity of your symptoms, your ability to handle medications, and your preference for addressing either emotional or situational issues.
There are three primary types of medication prescribed for persistent depressive disorder. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), commonly known as anti-depressants, are often recommended due to their proven effectiveness and safety. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are also alternative options.
It is important to discuss the potential side effects of antidepressants with your doctor to determine which medication is the most tolerable for you. While you may have been living with feelings of sadness or anger for a significant amount of time, it is possible for the symptoms of persistent depressive disorder to improve with the right treatment.
Treatment: Therapy
Effective treatment for persistent depressive disorder in children and teens typically involves psychotherapy as the initial approach. However, the use of anti-depressant medications may also be considered depending on the individual’s situation. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or psychological counseling, entails regular sessions with a therapist over the course of several weeks or months. By engaging in open discussions with a mental health professional, individuals can address their personal concerns and work towards alleviating symptoms associated with persistent depressive disorder.
Psychotherapy offers an opportunity to adapt to new life circumstances, as well as examine personal relationships and experiences that may have contributed to the current state of depression. Through the identification of underlying causes, individuals can acquire coping mechanisms, modify detrimental behaviors, and establish practical goals. This therapeutic process fosters the development of self-confidence, healthy interaction skills, and a renewed sense of control and happiness in one’s life.