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Depression is a very common but serious psychiatric disorder, occurring roughly in 1 of every 7 adults in their lifetime. It is important to treat not only because of the effects on daily functioning it has (lost work and income, decreased enjoyment, disruption of personal and social relationships and risk of suicide as well as a number of major medical illnesses), but also because bouts of depression tend to become a chronic problem when not addressed.

With the advent of much better tolerated and safer medications, depression is more treatable than ever. We also now know that certain behavioral treatments also work, particularly when paired with medication, including cognitive behavioral therapy; engaging in regular excercise, maintaining a regular sleep/wake routine and healthy eating habits helps too.

In the past, psychiatrists hoped to get patients feeling "better", and functioning again - but often settled for less than full symptom resolution. Now, however, with earlier and more aggressive treatment (higher doses, longer treatment times), full relief from all depression symptoms - "curing" depression" is understood to be definitely possible. The key seems to be finding the right medication and therapy regimen, following up regularly to monitor for side effects, safety, and compliance with the regimen and to maintain treatment for a sufficient length of time (usually up to 6 months for the first bout, but longer in cases where its a repeat occurrence).

Yes, it can be cured. If it's a major depression, then it would be difficult to cure. I had depression, and I cured it without any help.
Depression is neither. Depression can be managed by drugs prescribed by a physician and can be dealt with by a psychiatrist or your primary care physician, but cannot be cured even with treatment, in most cases. Talk to your doctor about planning a long-term care plan. It will help. This response has been given by a medical professional, but not a physician. Although this response has been checked for accuracy and has been researched, any advice given here does not take the place of your primary care provider. In an emergency, please dial 911 or your local emergency number. This response is provided under the terms and disclaimers of WikiAnswers and the author of this answer cannot be held liable for any misguided attempts to follow this advice without the observation or guidance of a licensed physician.

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11y ago

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