When Mom's Depressed

Psychotherapy is the treatment of both mental and emotional disorders through the use of psychological techniques and counseling. These forms may include cognitive, interpersonal, and group therapy or situational counseling. "The standard treatment for depression is psychotherapy, psychopharmacology (antidepressants), and ideally a combination of antidepressants, such as Prozac™, Paxil™, Zoloft™, and Celexa™. They are popular since they have far fewer side effects than the older antidepressants," states Dr. Howard.

Dr. Mozenter agrees, "They are safer, offer patients fewer side effects than some of the older medications that were once commonly prescribed."

This combination therapy, especially for those women who warrant medical treatment, may also include developing new interests to help keep your mind active and your body healthy. "Talking to friends, getting out, exercising, eating right are not only essential to everyone, but lifesaving for depressed people. The dilemma for depressed people, however, is that all these things that they need to do to help themselves get better are often precisely the things that they don't feel like doing. Overcoming depression is not easy," emphasizes Dr. Rogan.