For severe depression, the most effective way to deal with it is often short term medication and major lifestyle changes to prevent future depression. Later research suggests SSRIs have little or no long term effect once people stop taking them. Many end up back where they started, or even worse. Medication can help people through the worst period, but it does not necessarily solve the underlying problem. What we do know is that activity, diet, sleep, structure, and constant work with thoughts and thought processes help many people. It does not mean you are cured, but over time you can change how your brain works through neuroplasticity. The problem is that this takes work, every single day. Many people with depression simply do not have the energy or will to do it. It is like diet. Most people know what they should and should not eat, yet many never change, even when they know they would be healthier if they did.
