Putting It All Together

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to depression.

• Depression is a medical illness linked to changes in the biochemistry of the brain.

• Depression affects the mind, but this doesn't mean "it's all in your head."

• Depression is not a weakness of character.

• A clinically depressed person cannot simply "snap out of it" any more than a person with an ulcer could simply will it away.

• Depression is highly treatable in the vast majority of cases.

• Sometimes psychotherapy or counseling is all that is needed.

• There is also a wide array of effective antidepressant medications and alternatives.