more Hugs, Fewer Drugs

More Hugs, Fewer Drugs

To treat a repeat episode of depression, try getting Mom, Dad, and the kids involved. Family talk therapy was more effective at treating recurrent clinical depression than increasing antidepressant dosage in a 1-year study at the University of Bologna in Italy. Six patients who upped their meds relapsed a year later, while only one of those who tried family counseling became depressed again. One theory why: Depression recurrence can be sparked by changes at home, say researchers, such as a child departing for college.

Article on pg 130 Prevention Mag dtd April 2008