Depression takes many different forms. Without realizing it or accepting it, many Americans suffer from some sort of depression. It is estimated that some 14 million Americans are affected by depression. It is also estimated that less than a third of those affected will ever seek treatment that is less than 4.7 million of those, about 1/3, will seek medical help. What are the reasons? Perhaps it is because depression is classified as a mental illness. That label is one people tend to avoid. It wasn't that long ago that society shunned those unfortunate enough to be categorized with mental illness. When depression became apparent in people they were often sent away to clinics for the mentally ill. Fortunately times have changed. But what hasn't changed are old stereotypes. Many Americans keep their problem to themselves, motivated by this.

Depression is caused by many factors. Diagnosis isn't simple. You have to take into consideration the chemical imbalances in the brain, genetics, biology and even the environment surrounding the individual. Drug abusers and alcoholics can develop depression, but so can people just dealing with every day life situations and stress. These are all factors in causes depression. So what are some of the treatments and cures available for those that are inflicted? There are many options for treatment and even cure, just as there are many causes for depression. Which option is the best for someone who suffers with depression may be dependent on each individual on a case-to-case basis. 

There are many supposed cures for depression. There are methods of treatment available that are safe and work efficiently towards a cure for depression. A doctor looks at a number of factors to determine which combination of options to apply. Has the method being considered been clinically proven to be effective in the treatment of depression? If it is medication, herbal or prescription, does it have the proven amount of ingredients to induce a positive result? Has the method been accepted in accordance with high quality control standards? Some of the most popular treatments deserve a look.

For years the typical treatment for many forms of depression has been prescription drugs and psychotherapy. To treat depression a typical type of drug recommended is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRI. In 1988 Prozac was first used and today it is one of the most popular. Paxil, Zoloft, Lexapro, Celexa, and Luvox are just some of those that followed it. Case history shows all of these to be effective. However, prescription drugs are expensive and offer many side effects. That's the reason natural treatments are gaining popularity. St Johns Wort extract is one herbal cure gaining popularity quickly. In order to work it must contain between 3 and 5 % hyperforin. It has been proven to work as well as Prozac with fewer side effects. If those who have the disease don't seek treatment, a cure does no good. Seek medical care at once if you or a loved one suffer from depression.