Depression can have a debilitating effect on the person who suffers from it, as well as on family members and friends. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), over 20 million Americans are depressed, and most of those who suffer from depression are not treated for it. This is especially tragic because depression is easily treated with prescriptions and other therapies.

Symptoms of Depression

While most of us associate depression with sadness, the symptoms can take on a variety of characteristics. Chronic anxiety or periodic panic attacks can be symptoms of depression, as can overwhelming feelings of guilt or pessimism. According to the NIMH, people who are depressed can have a hard time making decisions or concentrating, and they can suffer from memory problems.

Although we may think of a depressed person as lethargic, he or she can actual experience restlessness that may be accompanied by insomnia or other sleep problems. Similarly, other physical symptoms can manifest, such as chronic pain, headaches, and stomach problems.

Causes of Depression

Perhaps because so many Americans suffer from depression, there is less stigma about the disease now than in previous decades. Unfortunately, misinformation still abounds. Although depression can be characterized as a mood disorder, it's very often a genetic illness caused by brain chemicals gone awry. Other people, such as those who have a poor self-image or who are easily stressed out, seem to be more susceptible to depression. Sometimes, a physical illness can trigger depression, while other times tragic life circumstances can send someone into a downward spiral. It seems that, for women, hormones can play a significant role in depression. The bottom line is that people who experience depression can't simply "snap out of it."

Treatment of Depression

Depression can be treated with psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. For most people, however, the costs and time commitment associated with such therapies make them out of reach.

Thankfully, there are a number of legal prescriptions used to treat depression that are available from a licensed pharmacy. The two primary types of antidepressants used today are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (also known as SSRIs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Brand names of anti-depressants include Celexa, Effexor, Elavil, Fluoxetine, Lexapro, Paxil, Prozac, Remeron, Wellbutrin, and Zoloft.

When an Online Pharmacy Can Help

The online pharmacy is a relatively new way to deliver health care and mental health care to Americans. Although an online pharmacy (sometimes known as a FedEx pharmacy because they use overnight delivery) isn't a substitute for diagnoses or prescriptions from a mental health professional, it can be a way to have a prescription filled discretely. This can be especially helpful to men, who seek treatment for depression much more infrequently than women. An online pharmacy can also be helpful for those who have a difficult time getting out of the house, or for those who are running out of their current prescriptions and need a next day refill.

Depression is an illness that takes a toll on everyone the patient comes in contact with. Fortunately, it is highly treatable with prescriptions, and can help people get back on the path to leading fulfilling and happy lives.