Recent research shows that depression is far more of a social problem than a biological condition. The rapid rise of depression sufferers can be explained by the family, and the social environment. Unfortunately it doesn’t just affect one member of the family and then stay contained within him or her. Depression affects others through relationships. It wreaks havoc and destruction on marital relationships, family relationships, work relationships, and the whole community.

Antidepressant medications can address some of the symptoms for about 50% of adult sufferers. However, they do not help the person learn to address their thinking and their relationships. Neither do medications help the person address the social insights and skills needed to be learned in order to overcome depression episodes and prevent relapses.

New evidence supports psychotherapy for treating subclinical depression in order to prevent depression from developing. Another of many studies indicating that depression is not only treatable, but preventable with education and treatment. The same skills that people can learn, such as problem solving skills, coping skills, and social skills, to overcome depression are the same skills that can help prevent depression’s onset as well as reduce relapses.

Reference:
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/832953?nlid=67504_2981&src=wnl_edit_dail&uac=65754CV

Baya Mebarek, Psy.D., LMFT
www.sandiegofamilytherapy.net