What strategies can help overcome major depressive disorder?

Question

Hello doctor,

My father, aged 60 years, weighs 194 pounds, with a height of 5.5 feet, and has been taking antidepressants (Venlafaxine 75 mg) for the past four years. He was doing great, and his mood was very happy. However, recently, his mood has declined, and he speaks very little. Most of the time, he sleeps. He visits his psychiatrist once every three months. What should we do now? Is it transitory, or should we see the doctor sooner than before?

Please advise.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for seeking help from a psychiatrist. I can understand your problem and your father's situation.

He has been diagnosed with major depressive disorder. There are non-pharmacological management strategies for depression that your father should consider following. These guidelines can help him:

He should engage in daily exercises for 30 to 45 minutes, such as going for a walk at least.
He should practice meditation for 20 minutes daily. Simply sit in a comfortable position and focus on normal breathing. Let thoughts come and go without forcing them away. This practice will help him relax.
Encourage him to eat healthy, home-cooked meals and avoid junk foods.
Ensure he drinks enough water throughout the day.
Encourage quality time spent with friends and family daily.
Encourage engagement in creative hobbies such as reading, writing journals, painting, drawing, or learning new skills, languages, or musical instruments.
Ensure he gets seven to eight hours of sleep daily, avoiding oversleeping.
He must avoid tobacco, alcohol, or any substance abuse.
Provide him with reasons to live his life fully, rather than just letting it pass by.

It is important to note that he is on effective medication. If he experiences over-sedation due to medication, discuss dosage adjustments with his psychiatrist. Understand that there may be phases when depressive episodes occur despite medication. These episodes are often short-lived, and the person will return to a normal state afterward.

I hope this information is helpful. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need further assistance.

Thank you.