There are many different forms of depression. Without realizing it or accepting it, many Americans suffer from some sort of depression. Studies estimate that at least 14 million Americans suffer from depression. Unfortunately only a very small percent, less than 1/3, will go for treatment. Why would people with a medical condition not seek help? Mental illness is a scary concept, and that's where depression has been filed. Nobody wants that label applied to them. 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. Times have changed now, thank goodness. But what hasn't changed are old stereotypes. This influences many Americans to keep their illness to themselves.

Many elements make up depression. It isn't easy to diagnose. Many things have to be considered such as genetics, biology and even outside influences. 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. In what ways can those who suffer from depression be treated? Just as there are many factors that can cause depression-there are many options to cure it as well. 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. Methods of treatment that are safe and that work to cure depression do exist. Here are some of the factors considered when these options are examined. Is the treatment proven clinically to be effective for depression? If it is medication, herbal or prescription, does it have the proven amount of ingredients to induce a positive result? Have high quality control standards been used when accepting the method? Let's examine some of the more popular cures.

For years the typical treatment for many forms of depression has been prescription drugs and psychotherapy. Prescription anti-depressants like SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are often prescribed as a treatment for depression. One of the most popular, Prozac, was first used in the United States in 1988. 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 is why natural cures are becoming so popular today. St Johns Wort extract is one herbal cure gaining popularity quickly. It must have between three and five percent hyperforin to work. 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.