Questions & Answers About Depression

Commonly asked questions about depression

This section will attempts to address patient and family concerns on a variety of depression related questions after being diagnosed with depression, or that families might have regarding their loved one. It will provide clear, matter-of-fact answers to a multitude of depression questions that one might have but has been afraid to ask. Some questions have straightforward, simple answers. Others do not.

1. What are emotions, and why do we have them?

2. What is the difference between thoughts and feelings?

3. How does the brain affect behavior and regulate emotional states?

4. What is mental illness? What is a major mental illness?

5. How do chemicals work in the brain?

6. What chemicals regulate emotions?

7. What is the difference between psychiatry and psychology?

Diagnosis for Depression

1. What are the symptoms of depression?

2. How do I know whether I have depression versus a "normal" reaction to a problem in life?

3. How can I feel depressed when I have a good job and a loving family?

4. Why did my doctor diagnose depression when I do not feel depressed?

5. Does a mild depression means a quicker recovery?

6. How do I tell my family and friends that I have depression?

7. Since my dad died, my mom has been drinking. Could she be depressed?

8. Can future episodes of depression be prevented?

9. A family member is depressed and refuses to see anyone, can we help?

10. What is the risk of depression when returning from active duty overseas?

Depression Medication

1. What's next if antidepressant is not helping?

2. Will medication makes us look medicated?

3. My medication helps but I have side effects. What can I do?

4. Can I consider delaying medication to see if my depression will go away without treatment?

5. Can I take other depression medication while on an antidepressant?

6. Can I drink wine with my antidepressant?

7. Are there long-term dangers to taking depression medication?